Masterarbeit: Piezoelektrische Polymerbürsten für ultraschallgesteuerten Elektronentransfer
Aachen
Part-time
Intern / Student
About us
The DWI – Leibniz-Institute for Interactive Materials is a federal and state funded research institute of the Leibniz Association based on the Melaten Campus of RWTH Aachen University. International young and experienced scientists from various disciplines develop interactive materials based on the principles of nature. It is a location at which people with different talents, experiences and skills work together, in order to learn from one another and generate new knowledge and new methods to create a better quality of life in our world.
Position
The DWI is seeking, to start as soon as possible, a
Project description
This research project is targeted at motivated Master's students who wish to complete their final thesis or a research internship on a cross-disciplinary topic.
We are engineering innovative soft-matter catalysts, uniting polymer physics and materials science to drive advanced electron-transfer processes. The goal of this project is to design core-shell polymeric nanomaterials capable of translating mechanical energy (e.g., ultrasound) into chemical energy via the piezoelectric effect. By utilizing the unique dynamic confinement of charged polymer brushes, these "microreactors" can generate transient local electric fields to drive challenging single-electron transfer (SET) reactions in aqueous media. Ultimately, we aim to translate these mechanocatalytic systems into biocompatible environments, opening new exciting avenues for their application in responsive biomaterials and active therapeutic systems.
Master’s student (f/m/d) in the field of polymer physics and materials science
Project description
This research project is targeted at motivated Master's students who wish to complete their final thesis or a research internship on a cross-disciplinary topic.
We are engineering innovative soft-matter catalysts, uniting polymer physics and materials science to drive advanced electron-transfer processes. The goal of this project is to design core-shell polymeric nanomaterials capable of translating mechanical energy (e.g., ultrasound) into chemical energy via the piezoelectric effect. By utilizing the unique dynamic confinement of charged polymer brushes, these "microreactors" can generate transient local electric fields to drive challenging single-electron transfer (SET) reactions in aqueous media. Ultimately, we aim to translate these mechanocatalytic systems into biocompatible environments, opening new exciting avenues for their application in responsive biomaterials and active therapeutic systems.
Your tasks
- Synthesis of core-shell polymeric nanomaterials using controlled surface-initiated polymerization techniques (e.g., SI-ATRP).
- Physicochemical characterization of the synthesized nanomaterials using analytical methods (e.g., DLS, Zeta potential, electron microscopy).
- Performing targeted mechanochemical catalytic assays under ultrasound to quantitatively monitor electron transfer processes using model probes and UV-Vis spectroscopy.
- Evaluating the catalytic performance in aqueous environments with an outlook toward future biomedical applications.
- You will carry out experiments responsibly following good laboratory practices and document your results.
Your profile
- Enrolled in a master’s program in chemistry, materials science, or a related field.
- Basic experience in chemical synthesis (experience in polymer chemistry or working under an inert gas atmosphere is an advantage).
- Strong interest in multidisciplinary research and soft materials.
- Very good English skills (supervision can be provided in English).
DWI offers
- The opportunity to write your master’s thesis or complete a research internship in a highly innovative and emerging field of research.
- Work at the fascinating intersection of polymer chemistry, mechanocatalysis, and biomaterials.
- Close, personalized support and guidance throughout your entire project from a doctoral student and your advisor.
- Access to modern, fully equipped laboratories and a wide range of advanced analytical instruments.
- An interdisciplinary, international, and inclusive work environment within an enthusiastic team.
- An open, team-oriented work atmosphere in an international setting
- Restaurants and cafeterias in the immediate vicinity
- A central location near downtown
We at the DWI - Leibniz Institute value diversity and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of gender, disability, nationality or ethnic and social background.
How to apply
The position is available immediately.
The regular weekly work schedule is 12 hours. The position is paid at a rate of 16.80 €/h.
Have we piqued your interest?
Please apply as soon as possible. Interviews will be conducted on an ongoing basis. The application process will close as soon as the position is filled.
If you are interested in a new professional challenge, we look forward to receiving your application. If you have any questions regarding this job posting, please contact: jwang@dwi.rwth-aachen.de
Please upload your complete and detailed application materials (resume, a current transcript, certificates, and a cover letter) in electronic form via the “Apply for this position” link.
By submitting your application, you consent to the electronic processing of your data.
The regular weekly work schedule is 12 hours. The position is paid at a rate of 16.80 €/h.
Have we piqued your interest?
Please apply as soon as possible. Interviews will be conducted on an ongoing basis. The application process will close as soon as the position is filled.
If you are interested in a new professional challenge, we look forward to receiving your application. If you have any questions regarding this job posting, please contact: jwang@dwi.rwth-aachen.de
Please upload your complete and detailed application materials (resume, a current transcript, certificates, and a cover letter) in electronic form via the “Apply for this position” link.
By submitting your application, you consent to the electronic processing of your data.