Imaging Plasmonic Polarimetry
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Glasgow
Department Name: School of Engineering
Abstract
We have demonstrated the ability to measure the structure of biological molecules using nanopatterned surfaces with unique plasmonic properties. When these plasmonic surfaces are exposed to light, they generate optical activity which is highly sensitive to the surrounding environment. These fields are capable of detecting binding events to proteins and are also able to detect the structural nature of the proteins. We are now able to measure these changes using a reflective polarimeter. In this project the candidate will build and test an imaging system for superpolarimetry which will enable spatial detection from a patterned substrate. Once the instrument has been build it will be calibrated against more established methods and finally tested with known biological samples.
Organisations
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP/N509668/1 | 01/10/2016 | 30/09/2021 | |||
| 1651390 | Studentship | EP/N509668/1 | 01/10/2015 | 31/03/2019 | Fraser Campbell |
| Description | Integration of high aspect ratio nanopillar arrays with a format compatible with high-throughput biology investigation methods. The mechanics of cantilevers with non-linear sidewall profiles has been generalised for future use, and a protocol for rapid deep silica etching with nm scale control using the ICP process has been developed using a Taguchi methodology. |
| Exploitation Route | The work can now be used for application to biology investigation into the relationship between single cells and their mechanical environment, with nm scale control of the topography for thorough interrogation of cell-substrate interactions. More generally, the ICP process can be applied to any quartz substrate fabrication. |
| Sectors | Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |