Electric-field modulation of molecular affinity at modified surfaces for selective separations

Electric-field modulation of molecular affinity at modified surfaces for selective separations

Electric fields as dynamic handles to tune molecular interactions and enable selective surface-based separations.

This internship/master thesis will generate preliminary experimental and theoretical results for a grant application, with the possibility of contributing to a scientific publication. The main scientific question is whether an applied electric field can be used to tune the interaction between molecules of interest and SiO2-based surfaces, thereby enabling selective capture, release or separation.

• Work with the imec fluidics and biochemistry teams to prepare SPR substrates (glass chips with adequate metal electrodes and coating) suitable for electrically tunable molecular interactions.
• Design and perform SPR experiments to measure adsorption, desorption, and binding kinetics of selected molecules under different applied electric-field conditions.
• Develop a theoretical framework to interpret the observed effects in terms of electrostatic interactions, interfacial potential, hydration forces, surface chemistry, and molecular charge, and use this framework to propose routes toward higher‑selectivity separations.

Type of internship: Master internship

Duration: 6 month

Required educational background: Biomedical engineering, Bioscience Engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Other

The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-237. Mention this reference code in your application.

Imec allowance will be provided for students studying at a non-Belgian university.

• Imec allowance will be provided for students studying at a non-Belgian university.

Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Camila Dalben Madeira Campos (Camila.DalbenMadeiraCampos@imec.be) and Van Pham (Van.Pham@imec.be)