Master/Bachelor thesis »Temperature-responsive polymer coatings«
The Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS in Halle (Saale) is a methodologically oriented Fraunhofer Institute in the material sciences and materials engineering disciplines. The business unit "Biological and Macromolecular Materials" is dedicated to advancing personal care and medical product innovation through the exploration of mechanisms of action and the creation of novel materials. Additionally, it focuses on enhancing biofunctional properties through surface technology. We are currently seeking a student to engage in scientific research and thesis preparation (Bachelor's, Master's, Diploma) at the earliest convenience. The global rise in antibiotic resistance presents a major healthcare challenge, underscoring the pressing demand for innovative solutions in the development of new antimicrobial agents and surfaces. In biomedical contexts, anti-adhesive coatings mitigate infection risks without fostering resistance, offering a pivotal advantage over bactericidal methods due to their low toxicity. Stimulus-responsive fouling-release coatings mark a technologically advanced progression in anti-adhesive systems. As part of an internal research initiative, we are crafting stimulus-responsive polymer coatings to enable thermally triggered self-cleaning of surfaces. Your objective is to devise synthesis pathways for coupling stimulus-responsive polymer brushes onto diverse substrate materials and conduct experimental evaluations. Drawing from an initial literature review, you will pinpoint appropriate techniques and parameters to activate the substrate surface (e.g., PMMA, PETG) and covalently tether polymer brushes with specific end groups.
What you will do
What you bring to the table
What you can expect
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.
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.
Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!
Additional questions will be answered gladly by: Dr. Nicole Michler phone: +49 345 5589-7036 email: nicole.michler@imws.fraunhofer.de
Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS
Requisition Number: 72396
Job Segment:
Chemical Research, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Research Scientist, Chemical Engineer, Engineering, Science