Development of Novel Affinity Receptors to Fabricate Nano-Functionalised Membranes for Viruses Separation and Detection in Water

• Application deadline: 1 February 2014
• Award type: MSc by Research
• Start date: As soon as possible
• Duration of award: 1 Year
• Eligibility: UK/EU

Overview

The project aims to develop novel affinity receptors that can be used to functionalised membranes and nanofilms to be used for separation and biosensing of viruses in water.

An MSc student is required to work on a one year project leading to an MSc by research funded by the European Commission FP7 programme. The project will focus on the design and development of affinity materials using molecular modelling to design receptor compounds such as molecular imprinted polymers (MIPs) which can be used for the separation and sensing of viruses in water. The aim of the research would be to successfully develop “smart” materials through the use of advanced design and synthesis technologies and molecular simulations for the fabrication of high affinity materials. Design an assay to apply the biomimics on sensor surfaces and optimise the sensing system.  

The objectives of this study are:

• Design and fabrication of novel smart materials specific against Viruses. 
• Screen and optimise the materials (receptors) and develop assay procedures using SPR sensor platform to sense the target viruses and apply the smart materials to separation system.

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  Entry requirements
  

  Applicants must have a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or equivalent) with a relevant subject area such as analytical chemistry, biochemistry, engineering, or other analytical science discipline.

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  Funding
  Students will have their University fees paid and receive a stipend of £13,000.00pa.
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  Doctoral Training Centre
  

  This higher research degree is associated with our Health Doctoral Training Centre (DTC). The Health DTC has an international reputation in carrying out cutting-edge research in biosensors/biomarkers, diagnostics, smart materials, bioinformatics, food quality, nutrition and safety, toxico-genomics and translational medicine. 

  A tailored programme of seminars and events alongside the generic core skills training programme, provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities with Cranfield’s wider research community.

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  About the department
  

  Cranfield Biotechnology Centre Business Unit

  Our worldwide reputation has been built over thirty years, and has led to the development of products such as the amperometric mediated glucose oxidase based sensor used by diabetics around the globe now representing a global market of in excess of US$13Bn.

  Our research in the medical diagnostics area continues to be cutting-edge working with many of the world’s leading companies in this sector. Our research is focused towards a range of point of care tests, hand-held biosensors and lateral flow devices.

  Research and expertise within the unit is carried out within the following groups:

  • Biomedical Diagnostics
  • Biosensors in Environment and Food
  • Nanomedicine
  • Sensing for Extreme Environments.
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  How to apply
  

  Please contact Prof. Ibtisam Tothill as soon as possible if you are interested in applying for this position. 

  For further information or to request an Application Form be sent to you, please contact:

  Prof. Ibtisam E Tothill

  T:    +44 (0)7500 766487

  E: i.tothill@cranfield.ac.uk

   

  Alternatively, contact the Enquiries Office:

  T: +44 (0)1234 758008  +44 (0)1234 758008

  E: enquiries@cranfield.ac.uk