Graphene Quantum dots and their enzyme-like properties

- Faculté des Sciences et Technologies de l’Université de Lorraine – Nancy (54).; Nancy; Sur place; EUR 30 000 - 45 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading French university in Nancy is seeking a candidate for research focused on the synthesis and characterization of graphene quantum dots derivatives. The ideal applicant will have solid knowledge in materials chemistry and analytical techniques. This opportunity welcomes students in their 2nd year of Master's or 3rd year of an engineering school. Proficiency in English or French is required.

Qualifications

• Sound knowledge of materials chemistry required.
• Proficiency in analytical chemistry and standard characterization techniques.
• Familiarity with photo-physical techniques needed.

Responsabilités

• Synthesize graphene quantum dots derivatives.
• Characterize their photophysical properties.
• Study the mechanism of catalytic activities.

Connaissances

Materials chemistry

Analytical chemistry

UV-vis spectroscopy

Fluorescence

DLS

NMR

Mass spectrometry

Formation

2nd year of Master's or 3rd year of Engineering school

Description du poste

Description

Phototherapeutic (PT) strategies, recently established as a breakthrough in photoreactive materials, have become a new trend in the inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms. In recent years, photocatalytic antimicrobial therapy (PCAT) has emerged as an effective and promising antimicrobial strategy. In the PCAT process, photocatalytic materials are excited by different wavelengths of light to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) or other toxic species to kill various pathogenic microbes, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and algae.Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have low toxicity, stable photoluminescence, excellent biocompatibility, and chemical inertness. GQDs with antioxidant activity can produce ROS under visible light irradiation. Moreover, GQDs surfaces can be easily modified due to their abundant functional groups. Functionalised GQDs with high light absorption and flexibility are attractive for use in PTT. However, a new modification strategy is needed that utilises the synergistic actions of PDT and PTT for use in antimicrobial applications.

Your main mission

• Synthesis of graphene quantum dots derivatives.
• Characterization of their photophysical properties.
• Study the mechanism of the catalytic activities.

Profile

Candidate profile: The candidate must have a sound knowledge of materials chemistry, analytical chemistry and standard characterization techniques (NMR, mass, IR) as well as photo-physical techniques (UV-vis spectroscopy, fluorescence, DLS). Applications from students in their 2nd year of a Masters or 3rd year of an engineering school are welcome. For international candidates, knowledge of English or French is required.

Starting date

02-01