Students: Analytical and structural characterization of sensors for health care applications

Sensors play a pivotal role in modern analytical sciences, particularly in the development of high-performance platforms for the detection of biological and chemical analytes. Applications span health care, environmental monitoring, breath diagnostics (breathonics), and industrial safety. Whether detecting biomarkers in body fluids or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath, target molecules are typically found at trace concentrations, often in complex sample matrices. This necessitates the design of sensing systems that are highly sensitive, selective, and robust under diverse operating conditions. Nanomaterial-based sensor platforms, such as carbon nanotube (CNT)-based field-effect transistors (FETs), emerged as promising candidates, enabling the development of compact, label-free, and real-time sensors suitable for point-of-care diagnostics and opening doors for wearable health technologies.

This project work or master's thesis focuses on the analytical and structural characterization of such nanoengineered sensors tailored for biological sensing or gas detection applications. The work includes the selective functionalization of sensor surfaces, optimization of sensor interface chemistry, and evaluation of device performance in liquid or gaseous environments. The device functionalization and structural modifications are studied via microscopy analysis, Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and the sensor response is monitored via electrical measurements. The goal is to correlate surface structure and composition with sensing behavior, contributing to a multimodal understanding of sensor performance. In particular, the sensor structures – thanks to their transistor configuration and modular functionalization options – enable AI-based evaluation methods, such as principal component analysis.

We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic student to join our team for a project work or master's thesis, where you will have the opportunity to make significant contributions to cutting-edge sensor technologies in the fields of biological sensing and gas detection.

Be part of change

• Literature review on sensor technologies, nanomaterials, and surface functionalization.
• Preparation and handling of solutions or gas mixtures for sensor testing.
• Execution of fabrication processes, parameter optimization, and experimental analysis.
• Multiparameter evaluation of nanomaterial-based sensors with dedicated AI algorithms.
• Regular presentations of results in scientific meetings or workgroup seminars.

What you contribute

• You are studying physics, chemistry, materials science, biosciences or a comparable course of study.
• You are an enrolled student in Chemnitz, Mittweida or the surrounding area.
• You are interested in micro and nanotechnology, surface analysis and analytical characterization methods.
• You have an organized, data-driven, and proactive working style.
• You have strong English reading and comprehension skills.
• An average grade of < 2 completes your profile.

What we offer

• You will work with advanced nanomaterial-based sensing platforms for biological and chemical applications.
• You will gain hands-on experience with surface characterization techniques (Raman, AFM, microscopy) and electrical measurements.
• You will collaborate in an interdisciplinary research team and have the opportunity to contribute your own ideas.
• You will receive professional supervision and a varied range of tasks.
• You will have flexible working hours, which will allow you to combine your studies with your practical work.
• You will benefit from a collegial, pleasant and motivating working environment.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference!
Please enclose your certificates and a current overview of your grades with your application.

Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems ENAS

Requisition Number: 81392 Application Deadline: