Computational protein design for hybrid nanopore sensors
PhD internship, Master internship - Leuven | More than two weeks ago
Harness protein design to build nanotechnology. This internship project addresses the integration of the biopore with electronic devices. By designing new proteins that better interface solid-state nanopore technologies, we aim to enable the assembly of a dense array of individually readable nanometer-scaled protein nanopores on a sensor chip. Such a “hybrid nanopore” concept would open the door to next-generation DNA and protein sequencing approaches, as well as the development of novel wearable devices and point-of-care technologies for real-time identification of molecules and biomarkers. In this Master thesis, computational protein design will be leveraged to develop versatile hybrid nanopores. To find the best possible fit to solid-state pores, we will use de novo design and high-throughput experiments combined with cutting-edge semiconductor processing techniques. The Master thesis involves both wet lab and computational work with a balance that can be adapted to the candidate expertise/interests. The project is a collaboration between VUB and IMEC.
Type of internship: PhD internship, Master internship
Duration: 5-6 months
Required educational background: Bioscience Engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics, Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Materials Engineering
University promotor: Pol Van Dorpe (KU Leuven)
The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-073. Mention this reference code in your application.
Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Jose Morales Hellin (Jose.MoralesHellin@imec.be) and Koen Martens (Koen.Martens@imec.be).
Responsibilities:
* Contribute to computational design of hybrid nanopores.
* Integrate de novo design with wet-lab validation and high-throughput experiments.
* Collaborate with VUB and IMEC on semiconductor processing techniques relevant to nanopore sensors.
Qualifications:
* Background in Bioscience Engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics, Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, or Materials Engineering.
* Interest in computational protein design and nanopore technologies.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
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