Project B03

Plasmon-induced RAFT polymerisation as a route to asymmetrically functionalized nanoparticles

Principal investigators: Matthias Hartlieb, Ilko Bald

In this project reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerisation will be triggered plasmonically by coupling chain transfer agents directly to nanoparticles in order to create asymmetrically functionalized nanoparticles. Different coupling modes will allow for different ways to control the polymerisation, and mechanistic studies will be performed by quartz-crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) monitoring, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). 

Position 1 (ID no. CRC1636B03-1/2023; Dr. Matthias Hartlieb, University of Potsdam):

Responsibilities:

Synthesis and detailed characterization of small molecules, polymers, and colloidal structures. Development of analytical methods to probe plasmon-induced polymerizations.

Qualifications:

Excellent Master's degree in chemistry, material science or similar at the time of project start. The candidate should have a strong background in polymer chemistry and colloid chemistry. Expertise in the work with nanoparticles and surface characterization techniques is of advantage. The candidate should be open-minded, highly motivated, communicative and keen to work in an interdisciplinary group of scientists.

Position 2 (ID no. CRC1636B03-2/2023; Prof. Ilko Bald, University of Potsdam):

Responsibilities:

Physicochemical characterization of nanoparticles including synchrotron XPS and detailed SERS and electrochemical SERS studies of plasmon-induced molecular activation and polymerization.

Qualifications:

Excellent Master's degree in chemistry, physics or similar at the time of project start. The candidate should have a strong background in physical chemistry, optical spectroscopy and preparation of metal nanoparticles. Expertise in SERS, plasmonic chemistry, XPS and/or (spectro)electrochemistry will be advantageous. The candidate should be open-minded, communicative and keen to work in an interdisciplinary group of scientists.