Optical Biosensors

Focus

Our research team aims to advance science in the field of optical biosensors, and furthermore, develop novel optical biosensor technologies for applications in biomolecular research and bioanalytics. This highly multidisciplinary research requires a concerted effort in multiple areas, including: research into photonic and plasmonic (nano)structures; the development of functional biomolecular systems; the development of sensor instruments as well as their applications for the investigation of biomolecules and their interactions and the detection of chemical and biological substances.

Surface plasmons and surface plasmon-related phenomena on photonic (nano)structures

We carry out theoretical and experimental research to expand the understanding of optical phenomena in photonic (nano)structures, in particular, in (nano)structures supporting various types of surface plasmons, with a focus on their role in optical biosensing based on Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS).

Functional biomolecular systems for affinity biosensors

We investigate approaches to interface inorganic photonic (nano)structures with biomolecules. Specifically, we look to control the placement of the biomolecules on the photonic (nano)structures, and furthermore, to optimize the properties of the photonic (nano)structures functionalized with biomolecules with respect to their interactions with biological media.

Measurement methods and sensor instrumentation

We research optical measurement techniques, including measurement principles, instrumentation, and data processing approaches, to create optical systems for high-performance optical biosensors. We also research analyte transport phenomena and work on microfluidic systems with optimized analyte transport properties.

Optical biosensors for investigation of biomolecules and their interactions

We pursue optical biosensor application for the study of biomolecules and their interactions. This effort comprises, in particular, the development of novel experimental methodologies and data analysis tools.

Optical biosensors for detection of chemical and biological substances

We develop novel biosensors for the rapid and sensitive detection of chemical and biological substances relevant to medical diagnostics (disease biomarkers), environmental monitoring (pollutants and contaminants), and food safety (pathogens and toxins).