Open postdoc position
One postdoc position is available in our group within the project “Ion-transfer between immiscible liquids in a paper-based setup” financed via the National Science Centre Poland (NCN).
Application details:
o Envisaged Job Starting Date: Jan 1st, 2023 (can be negotiated)
o Application Deadline: Nov 10, 2022
o How to Apply: Candidates should contact Martin for information. Applications must be submitted by sending an e-mail to rekrutacja@ichf.edu.pl with the subject line mentioning the number 039-2022. All information available here.
Job Description:
We are looking for a postdoc to a project named “Ion transfer between immiscible liquids in a paper-based setup”. The main goal of this project is to make a significant contribution to bringing ion-transfer out of the laboratory and into the field or bedside. By combining ion-transfer electroanalysis with paper-based sensing, we can overcome the problems with liquid-liquid interface stability. Within the project the candidate will perform studies of ion-transfer between immiscible liquids in a paper-based setup. This includes studies of facilitated transfer with the help of various ionophores and transfer of larger molecules such as proteins and their substrates to create viable analytical tools. We will also study differences between ion transfer in traditional systems and the paper-based systems using methods such as cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and various forms of microscopy. The successful candidate will also be encouraged to pursue own research ideas within the broad scope of the research group’s activities.
The main goal of this project is to make a significant contribution to bringing ion-transfer out of the laboratory and into the field or bedside. By combining ion-transfer electroanalysis with paper-based sensing, we can overcome the problems with liquid-liquid interface stability. Using the cellulose structure of the paper to stabilise the liquid phases can help create a more user-friendly setup for ITIES measurements. However, the combination of ion-transfer and paper also brings out several unique advantages. An “electrochemical pen”, with a gelled organic phase in an external pen-like probe that can be used to sample the paper-based analytical solution, can be combined with paper-based chromatographic separation of proteins for quick and simple analysis of samples. It can also be used for analysis of smaller molecules that can be pre-concentrated in the paper using a repeated “drip and dry” procedure or accumulated in the gel by “dip and pick” and the determined by stripping voltammetry.
For all this to be feasible, the interface between the paper-based aqueous phase and the organic gelled phase needs to be properly characterised, which will be an important part of the project. Using a combination of electrochemical tools, such as impedance spectroscopy and AC voltammetry with fluorescence microscopy we will investigate how ions and, especially, proteins interact with the paper-gel ITIES as compared to a normal ITIES and one with a liquid aqueous phase and gelled organic phase. During the course of the project we will construct sensors for model analytes and proteins and compare to the performance of standard ITIES sensors to evaluate their sensitivity and limit of detection.
Candidate requirements:
The successful candidate should have a PhD degree or equivalent in chemistry, physics, chemical engineering or similar areas.
Solid knowledge in physical chemistry and previous experience in electrochemistry is required. Experience in liquid-liquid electrochemistry is highly desired but can be waived for candidated with exceptional complementary skills. Experience in paper-based electrochemistry is a useful addition.
Good command of both written and spoken English is required (Polish is not).
For full information about requirements and application procedure see https://ichf.edu.pl/en/job.
Benefits:
We offer 10000 PLN per month of (total employment cost, ca 8300 PLN gross or 6500 netto) financed from the NCN. The position within the grant is for a period of 30 months.