The project is evaluating biosensors as a fast screening tool for monitoring/screening of contaminants (mycotoxins) in food and feed. Aptamers and Mips (Moleculary Imprinted Polymers) can be considered as an alternative of antibodies, with several advantages compared with the latest (animal friendly, adaptable, cheap…). Aptamers will be selected and characterized by analytical methods (SPR, QCM). These fast screening test will be developed based on lateral diffusion methodology (dipstick) and are based on newly developed nanoparticels. A further development towards more complicated Biomems biosensors is a possibility. This multi-disciplinary project involves aspects of biotechnology, molecular biology, chemistry , surface chemistry.
The project can be seen in the view of the high need of fast and payable alternatives for chemical analytical tools.
The project involves:
- biotechnological and molecular biological work
- Chemistry
- Genomics
Position
Full PhD grant (a one year proof period, that can be extended for the full PhD period).
Qualifications
A diploma as Master in Biology, Chemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Biological Engineer, Civil engineer, Pharmacist, Veterinarian sciences or any other relevant field
Information and application
Applications are open to 1st class students worldwide.
Start of the project is November 2008
Projects can be adjusted towards the personal interest of motivated candidates. Therefore we also encourage people to submit their CV for the open positions below or for a ‘personal’ topic within the expertise areas of the lab.
For further information and application, please send your CV with a letter to express your interest and three references to Johan Robbens PhD MBA by email Johan.robbens@ua.ac.be
About Antwerp
(http://www.antwerpen.be/eCache/BEN/52.html)
(some excerpts)
Antwerp is the real urban deal, a refreshingly down-to-earth yet vivacious cosmopolitan habitat blessed with magnificent architecture, fashionable shop fronts, beer-washed pubs, dazzling monuments, jazzed-up clubs, inspired artworks and restaurant tables piled with plates of superb Belgian and multicultural food. Antwerp, home of the Flemish Baroque master Rubens, not only has a wealth of outstanding museums, picturesque galleries, sculpted streets and beautiful architecture, but is also laced with refreshing greenery and urban haunts. Its culture, history, vibrant nightlife and world class shopping are within easy reach, thanks to excellent access by air, train, motorway and even water.
As a fashion city Antwerp owes its reputation to the pioneers of the fashion movement, the so-called 'Antwerp Six': Walter Van Beirendonck, Ann Demeulemeester, Dries Van Noten, Dirk Van Saene, Dirk Bikkembergs and Marina Yee travelled to London and Paris together in the Eighties as well as Martin Margiela (the seventh). Together they conquered the fashion world with their very distinct vision of fashion.
Antwerp World Diamond Centre is not just a slogan. “Antwerp quality” and “Antwerp cut” are international trade terms synonymous with perfect processing and flawless beauty. Antwerp has a long and magnificent tradition as a diamond city. Since the 15th Century the city has played an important role in the diamond trade and industry.
Some 1,500 diamond companies are concentrated in the city centre. In less than one square kilometre, nearby Central Station, more than half of all cut diamonds pass through a network of diamond cutting shops, diamond bourses and selling centres. Of the 25 diamond exchanges worldwide, 4 operate in Antwerp. Elegant showrooms offer the visitor fascinating tours and the opportunity to visit interesting exhibitions
Antwerp is a pocketsize metropolis.
Antwerp is situated less than one (or two) hour away from Amsterdam, Paris, London, Brussels…
Click here for more vacancies.