Surface Engineering of Inorganic Nanoparticles
Explore surface engineering of inorganic nanoparticles to improve cellular targeting and imaging within quantum biotechnology. Develop new nanoparticle designs to bypass cellular barriers and enhance single-cell sensing capabilities.
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Project Description
Project Overview
The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology (QUBIC) will be established in 2023 as a pioneering research centre integrating quantum physics with biotechnology. It aims to develop novel quantum technologies to revolutionize biomedical imaging, chemical design, and clean energy. This PhD project, located at the UTS node and led by Prof Jiajia Zhou, focuses on surface modification and engineering of inorganic nanoparticles for specific biological applications.
What You Will Do
You will investigate surface modification techniques to enable targeting of cellular organelles by inorganic nanoparticles. The research will explore surface design strategies to facilitate nanoparticle delivery into cellular environments, bypassing endosomal or lysosomal entrapment. You will also design and synthesize bright optical nanoparticles with hydrophilic surfaces for efficient cellular imaging and sensing at the single-cell level.
Expected Outcomes
The project aims to produce engineered nanoparticles with improved targeting and imaging capabilities, supporting advances in quantum biotechnology. Expected outcomes include novel surface chemistries that enhance intracellular delivery, single-cell imaging probes, and enhanced sensing technologies based on inorganic nanoparticles.
Why This Matters
Advancing nanoparticles for cellular targeting and imaging will impact biomedical research by enabling more precise studies of cellular function and enzyme catalysis. This work contributes to developing Australia's quantum economy and builds expertise for future quantum technology applications.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Prof Jiajia Zhou is a leading researcher at the University of Technology Sydney specializing in surface engineering of nanoparticles and their applications in biotechnology. She leads projects within the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology focusing on innovative quantum technology applications in biomedical imaging and sensing. Her work emphasizes designing inorganic nanoparticles for targeted delivery and imaging at the cellular level, combining expertise in nanotechnology and quantum science.