Nanoelectronics and Nanofluidics Combined with Graphene Edge Sensors for Single Molecule Detection
Explore how graphene edge sensors combined with nanofluidics can revolutionize single molecule detection and DNA sequencing. Join a collaborative team to develop scalable devices with unprecedented sensitivity that may transform biomolecular analysis and diagnostics.
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Project Description
Project Overview
This research aims to fabricate and characterize graphene edge sensors for single molecule detection and biopolymer sequencing by integrating nanofluidics with nanoelectronics. The project uses graphene's atomic thickness and exceptional electrical properties to enable direct transverse electrical readout for molecules such as DNA, proteins, and polysaccharides.
What You Will Do
The student will fabricate devices combining nanofluidic channels with graphene electrodes, functionalizing graphene edges for unique electrical tunneling signals from trapped nucleotides. Collaborative supervision is provided by Grégory Schneider (Chemistry) and Jan van Ruitenbeek (Physics).
Expected Outcomes
The project expects to create scalable and tunable solid-state graphene nanopore sensors capable of distinguishing single nucleotides and similar biomolecules, pushing DNA sequencing towards true base-by-base resolution with unprecedented sensitivity and selectivity.
Why This Matters
Current nanopore sensors cannot resolve single nucleotides accurately, limiting sequencing and broader biomolecular analysis. This work could revolutionize DNA and protein sequencing methods, enabling cheaper, faster, and more precise detection technologies with wide applications in biomedical science and diagnostics.
Entry Requirements
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr. Grégory Schneider leads the Laboratory for 2D materials, graphene chemistry, and bionanotechnology at Leiden University. His research focuses on the chemical functionalization of graphene and other 2D materials to enable novel sensing and electronic device applications. Schneider is recognized for advancing graphene-based sensor technologies and integrating nanofabrication techniques with chemical nanoscale engineering.