Sensing biological reactions using magnetic nanoparticles

At Imego AB we have developed a proprietary technique to sense chemical reactions based on the measurements of the dynamic susceptibility of magnetic nanoparticles at different frequencies of the external magnetic field. Such measurements enable one to determine the rotational Brownian motion of nanoparticle suspensions. The latter changes when the surface chemistry of nanoparticles is modified. We have already applied the technique to study a range of biologically important chemical reactions.

The objective of your diploma work will be to develop new application(s) of the technique, e.g., for sensing the polysaccharides or DNA fragments. The job will include the characterization of commercially acquired nanoparticle suspensions, development of suitable particle functionalisation procedures as well as measurement of the performance of the system (mainly) with regard to the sensitivity and the repeatability.