JAE INTRO ICU Fellowships
The JAE Intro ICU calls are calls for introductory research grants for students with a high level of academic performance. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis and in accordance with the principles of transparency, objectivity and publicity.
The training plan derived from the award of these grants will be developed at the Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón, under the direction of its researchers/professors, making it possible that this training plan is oriented to the subsequent development of the doctoral thesis at the Institute.
It is recommended that in order to be eligible for the JAE Intro ICU scholarships at the Institute of Nanoscience and Materials of Aragon (CSIC – UNIZAR), students should contact directly the research groups or researchers who develop scientific tasks related to their interests and they will inform them of the different plans and programs offered.
JAE INTRO ICU 2025
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-01
Researcher: María Sancho
Group: Películas y Partículas Nanoestructuradas (NFP)
Training programme title: Bioartificial therapeutic nanoparticles as targeted delivery vectors for tumours
Student: vacant
The aim of this study is to design selective delivery vectors combining extracellular vesicles and nanotechnology-derived therapeutics in order to generate a specific tool capable of selectively killing tumour cells. To this end, EVs will be isolated from different cells and characterised by western blotting techniques, flow cytometry, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), electron microscopy (TME), etc. These EVs will be subsequently modified with nanoparticles (NPs) of different metallic composition, dimensions and characteristics following different loading strategies (active methods by sonication, electroporation, incubation with parental cells, etc.). Finally, the stability and aggregation of the EVs-NPs complexes in different biological media and fluids as well as their interactions with target cells will be evaluated to assess the potential therapeutic properties of the new EVs modified with NPs (in vitro cell models will be used and cytotoxicity tests, confocal microscopy and flow cytometry studies will be performed).
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-02
Researcher: Pilar Pina
Group: Películas y Partículas Nanoestructuradas (NFP)
Training programme title: Nanotechnology and Raman spectroscopy applied to the detection of pesticides in drinking waters
Student: vacant
The training project is focused on the development of an experimental methodology for the detection of pesticides in water intended for human consumption using Surface Amplified Raman Spectroscopy (SERS). The principle of operation is based on the enormous enhancement of the Raman signal of molecules adsorbed on the surface of metallic nanostructures with appropriate composition, size, shape and periodicity mainly due to the amplification of the electromagnetic field. The molecules confined in the vicinity of the resonant metal surface undergo a large increase in their cross-section, leading to an increase in their Raman intensity and a reduction in their limit of detection (LOD).
It is part of a line of research dedicated to the identification of chemical and biological hazards in the field of food safety. These threats range from accidental hazards, exacerbated by climate change, to intentional attacks, such as the use of chemical agents in agri-food terrorism. The proposed training programme will introduce students to the fabrication of SERS substrates by nanoimprint lithography, to the use of advanced tools for their optical and morphological characterisation and to the protocols for measuring their SERS activity with both model molecules and pesticides of particular relevance in the field of public health.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-03
Researcher: Sara Lafuerza
Group: Radiación Sincrotrón y Materiales: Investigación básica y Aplicaciones (RASMIA)
Training programme title: Enhancing the electrocaloric effect through strain-engineering in lead-free perovskite epitaxial thin films
Student: vacant
The electrocaloric effect (ECE) is a leading clean and efficient alternative to vapor compression for refrigeration applications near room temperature. Solid-state electrocaloric (EC) materials show reversible adiabatic temperature changes upon electric (E) field variations and are in the spotlight since the discovery of a giant ECE in a thin film of PbZr0.95Ti0.05O3. Ferroelectric thin films promote strong EC responses and are particularly attractive for on-chip EC cooling for electronics in data centers. However, the largest responses have mainly been obtained in Pb-based compounds and sustainable materials are sought after to implement environmentally friendly EC cooling.
The proposed training program aims at achieving enhanced EC properties in epitaxial thin films of lead-free ferroelectric perovskites by tuning the interfacial strain imposed by the underlying substrate. A codoped composition of BaTiO3 will be grown on appropriate single-crystal perovskite substrates to impart compressive and tensile strains. Metallic electrodes will be fabricated to probe the either out-of-plane or in-plane polarization (P) and survey the ferroelectric properties and ECE. The main tasks will be:
– Sample preparation by pulsed laser deposition (PLD)
– Structural characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and reflectivity (XRR)
– P versus E field measurements with a ferroelectric tester as a function of temperature
– Determination of the ECE through thermodynamic analysis of the P(E,T) data
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-04
Researcher: Cristina Bran
Group: Magnetismo en Nano-estructuras y sus Aplicaciones (MAGNA)
Training programme title: 3D nanostructures for the next generation of MRAM memories
Student: vacant
Energy consumption associated with the processing and storage of data has increased drastically and predictions state that it will keep on doing so as the demands in terms of specifications and performance of devices do so as well. The development of low-power non-volatile spintronic technologies offers a promising path towards the creation of a new generation of memory devices with capable of addressing some of this challenges.
More specifically, the use of racetrack devices based on topological magnetic quasiparticles such as skyrmions has been proposed as a viable alternative due to being more stable with respect to other spin structures. However, there are three main challenges that make Skyrmion based spintronic devices difficult to design and implement, these being: their nontrivial trajectories under electric currentsand the effect of temperature gradients to Skyrmion motion
To face these challenges, a better understanding of Skyrmion’s behavior under temperature gradients is needed. To extend the energy landscape in thermal Skyrmion motion and nucleation, we will do an extension of the physics of these spin structures into the 3D realm, as existing studies about this topic are centered in the study of 2D structures. Nanopatterning is perfectly suited for this purpose, as it will allow us to study a great temperature gradient to better understand thermal effects and for geometric complexity to study motion and topology effects.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-05
Researcher: Ana B. Arauzo
Group: Radiación Sincrotrón y Materiales: Investigación básica y Aplicaciones (RASMIA)
Training programme title: Magnetic properties and multifunctionality of chiral molecular compounds with 4D ions
Student: vacant
Single-molecule magnets (SMMs) are compounds that act as small individual magnets at very low temperatures. These materials have a magnetic moment that can be manipulated and controlled, which is of great interest in applications in quantum technologies, as molecular memory and in the fields of spintronics and nanoelectronics. Research on SMMs focuses on understanding and improving their magnetic properties, which is fundamental for the development of advanced technologies in these fields.
Within this line, there is a growing interest in SMMs based on 4d metals, which exhibit high spin-orbit coupling and higher radial extension of the orbitals. On the other hand, chiral metal complexes with chirality in the metal are rare and unique and can give rise to multifunctional phenomena of high interest.
The study and modelling of the magnetic properties of a novel chiral Ru(III) complex is proposed to obtain information on the physical processes taking place and its performance as a chiral SMM.
The experimental work will consist of physical, chiral and magnetic characterisation, including the following techniques: voltammetry, circular dichroism, SQUID magnetometry and magnetic susceptibility. At room temperature, complementary spectroscopies such as IR and XRD will also be necessary. Eventually, participation in more advanced characterisation, such as synchrotron X-ray diffraction, will be encouraged.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-06
Researcher: Reyes Mallada
Group: Películas y Partículas Nanoestructuradas (NFP)
Training programme title: Advanced CO₂ capture: 3D sorbents and microwave regeneration
Student: vacant
The current technology for CO2 capture is based on absorption with liquid amines. Regeneration is very demanding in terms of energy, as the entire liquid must be heated. In this project we developed solid adsorbents with high CO2 adsorption capacity, together with an efficient process using microwave heating (MWH) for the regeneration of the solids with the aim of decreasing the energy requirement by up to 50%. This is an example of process intensification that includes process electrification and volume reduction of solids inventory by structuring the solids with 3D printing.
It is a multidisciplinary project involving the areas of: chemistry and materials science (adsorbent development), design and manufacturing engineering (3D printing), chemical engineering (process development), telecommunications engineering (microwave heating), and telecommunications engineering (microwave heating).
The specific objectives of the training programme include:
-To understand the limitations of current technologies based on liquid amines for CO₂ capture.
-To analyse the design, synthesis and characterisation of solid adsorbents with high CO₂ adsorption capacity.
-Explore the use of microwave heating (MWH) as a technology for efficient regeneration of sorbents.
-Evaluate the textural, mechanical and dielectric properties of the developed materials.
-Introduce process intensification through electrification and structuring of materials with 3D printing.
-Integrate knowledge from multidisciplinary disciplines (chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, telecommunications and design) in a comprehensive approach to CO₂ capture.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-07
Researcher: Jorge Lobo
Group: Radiación Sincrotrón y Materiales: Investigación Básica y Aplicaciones (RASMIA)
Training programme title: Quantum properties of organic-inorganic hybrid intershells studied by scanning tunneling probe microscopy
Student: vacant
This training programme aims to introduce students to a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary experimental research environment. To this end, the student will be introduced to a laboratory equipped with a wide variety of surface synthesis and characterisation techniques specialising in tunnel probe microscopy and spectroscopy in an ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic low temperature (4K) environment. At all times the student will be supervised by two senior scientists, Drs Jorge Lobo Checa and David Serrate.
The scientific objective will be to grow and study ultra-thin (a few atomic layers) high quality heterostructures of the unexplored family of lamellar materials: transition metal dihalides (TMDHs). These materials are two-dimensional bulk magnetic insulators, which, combined with planar organic structures, generate organic-inorganic hybrid structures of fundamental interest. Once these novel structures are grown (in-situ), the student will engage in the investigation of their structural, electronic and magnetic properties following two aspects: first, to elucidate whether the thinner TMDH films retain their long-range magnetic order and exhibit an insulating gap and, second, to determine how these properties affect the organic layers fabricated on top of them. The organic nanoarchitectures will provide different quantum properties that are of fundamental interest.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-08
Researcher: Anabel Gracia Lostao
Group: Quantum Materials and Devices (QMD)
Training programme title: Analysis and deposition of redox proteins at the nanoscale using atomic force microscopy
Student: vacant
In recent years, the great importance of quantum and mechanical properties in biological processes has been recognized. Understanding these phenomena requires their characterization using spectroscopic or microscopic techniques. These studies provide insight into novel facets of living systems and are also used in the development of quantum technologies. In this area, electron-exchange or redox proteins are studied using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM).
The two objectives can be achieved in parallel with AFM and with redox proteins:
– Analysis of the catalytic mechanism of important flavoenzymes, determining the association pattern and conformational dynamics through ligand binding and catalysis. Measurements will be performed using AFM in a physiological medium with nanometer resolution. Riboflavin kinase, responsible for the homeostasis and channeling of the flavin cofactor FMN, and pyridoxine-5′-phosphate oxidase, which catalyzes reactions in vitamin B6 metabolism, will be studied. We will focus on the system of Brucella ovis, a bacterium that causes serious pathologies in sheep, making these enzymes interesting therapeutic targets.
– Development of a platform for the detection of redox proteins using EPR-on-chip. AFM in dip-pen nanolithography mode will be used to integrate controlled amounts of myoglobin into the most sensitive areas of LER-type superconducting resonators, providing high resolution for the detection of quantum events. After EPR measurements at low temperatures, the number of molecules in each deposit within the sensing zone of influence will be estimated using AFM imaging and other techniques.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-09
Researcher: Lucía Gutiérrez
Group: Biofuncionalización de Nanopartículas y Superficies (BIONANOSURF)
Training programme title: Materials in the framework of sustainable fashion
Student: vacant
Materials in the framework of sustainable fashion:
In recent years, the fashion industry has started to face a significant transformation towards sustainability, driven by the growing awareness of the environmental and social impact of traditional textile production. In this context, the study of sustainable materials has become a key pillar. Sustainable materials range from natural and organic fibres, such as organic cotton and linen, to innovative recycled and biodegradable materials, such as recycled polyester and laboratory silk. The aim of this work is to collect information on these materials in the fashion industry and to generate factsheets to inform about them. In particular, their environmental impact and their chemical and physical properties will be assessed to determine their feasibility and benefits compared to conventional materials.
Tasks to be carried out during the work include:
– Review of scientific literature on sustainable materials and the fashion industry.
– Data analysis and generation of data sheets on the different materials, including details on their chemical and mechanical properties, and comparative analysis of their life cycle.
– Collaboration with designers and manufacturers of sustainable fashion to obtain a practical and realistic perspective on the implementation of these materials in commercial products in order to discuss the results obtained.
This work is part of the European IMASUS project, funded through Erasmus +, which we coordinate from INMA.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-10
Researcher: Santiago Martín Solans
Group: Ensamblaje de Materiales y Modificación de Superficies (ENMA)
Training programme title: Nanofabrication of molecular electronic devices
Student: vacant
Society’s demand for further miniaturisation of electronic devices makes molecular electronics an alternative to current Si technology. This is because this technology makes it possible to miniaturise (to the required sizes, i.e. molecular dimensions) as well as to increase the power and efficiency of electronic devices. The use of organo or organometallic compounds as the body of the device has made it possible to increase the performance of the device and to pursue the required miniaturisation. This project revolves around the fabrication of molecular electronic devices based on organic compounds. The interaction and skeleton of the organic compound with the electrodes is fundamental to improve the performance of the device, so this project will investigate the use of custom-synthesised organic compounds to improve the electrical properties of the devices created.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-11
Researcher: Milagros Piñol
Group: Cristales Líquidos y Polímeros (CLIP)
Training programme title: Amphiphilic block copolymers as drug nanocarriers
Student: vacant
The development of advanced systems to deliver biologically active agents requires precise transport and dosing methods, with controlled release on demand. Among the strategies explored, amphiphilic block copolymers that self-assemble in water stand out as efficient vehicles for drug release in response to specific stimuli. Accessing macromolecules with precise, biocompatible and degradable self-assembly properties is key in this field.
This work aims to obtain block copolymers through controlled polymerisations and click chemistry reactions, combined with fabrication techniques such as nanoprecipitation, microfluidics or polymerisation-induced self-assembly (PISA).
The training programme of this JAE INTRO ICU includes training in controlled polymerisation and post-functionalisation techniques by click chemistry reactions, structural characterisation (NMR, IR), chromatography (GPC) and thermal analysis (TGA, DSC), fabrication and characterisation of self-assemblies by electron microscopy (TEM) and DLS. Finally, the encapsulation of model molecules and their release against different stimuli (light, pH or temperature) of model molecules will be studied.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-12
Researcher: Blanca Ros
Group: Cristales Líquidos y Polímeros (CLIP)
Training programme title: Materiales supramoleculares funcionales basados en moléculas de tipo bent-core
Student: vacant
Our extensive experience in the use of liquid crystals for the development of advanced functional materials with a high degree of molecular order, coupled with the fact that the intermolecular forces that induce this state can also manifest and be equally effective in the presence of solvents or after anchoring to surfaces, is making it possible, using the same molecules, to obtain supramolecular materials with controllable morphology, structuring, and dimensionality, as well as modulating functional properties and applications of high technological interest. In this challenge, bent-core molecules are proving to be innovative and highly versatile molecular designs for the preparation of a wide variety of advanced materials through supramolecular chemistry. The objective of this training project is the synthesis, preparation, and characterization of new functional organic molecules of the bent-core type and novel supramolecular materials: liquid crystals, gels, emulsions, and 3D printing materials. Tasks to be performed:
1. Synthesis and purification of bent-core organic compounds using covalent chemistry.
2. Structural characterization using IR, NMR, UV-vis, and MS.
3. Study of liquid crystal properties using MOP, TGA, and DSC.
4. Preparation and structural and functional characterization of CL formulations, gels, or emulations using TEM and/or SEM.
5. Structure-activity study of different supramolecular materials.
6. Activities scheduled for the research group and center: “Practical Course on the Use of NMR Spectrometers”, “Laboratory Safety” and attendance at scientific seminars organized at INMA and research group meetings.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-13
Researcher: Carlos Sánchez Somolinos
Group: Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory (AML)
Training programme title: 4D printing of microstructures for biomedicine and soft robotics
Student: vacant
Three-dimensional (3D) printing creates complex objects from graphic files by digitally adding material layer by layer, although these objects are generally inanimate. Four-dimensional (4D) printing introduces time as a fourth dimension, generating objects that change their shape over time in response to a stimulus, such as temperature. To achieve this, 4D printing combines additive manufacturing and smart materials such as shape-memory polymers or hydrogels. The digital positioning of these materials aims to generate 3D objects with defined morphologies, incorporating into them the ability to change their shape in a predictable and controlled manner in response to external stimuli.
Recently, the Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory (AML; https://aml.csic.es) of the Institute of Nanoscience and Materials of Aragon (INMA) has pioneered the development of 4D printing and electrowriting of liquid crystal elastomers, two techniques that introduce intelligence into 3D-printed structures by digitally programming the material’s response to external stimuli through additive manufacturing (https://doi.org/10.1002/marc.201700710; https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202209244). Related to these achievements, the laboratory is currently working on the development of materials that respond reversibly to different stimuli such as light and magnetic fields. These materials are being used to develop intelligent structures capable of performing mechanical functions of interest in biomedical, microfluidics, and soft robotics applications.
In this project, the selected candidate will become familiar with these and other advanced manufacturing techniques. Specifically, they will gain training in direct extrusion printing and electro-writing techniques, covering the generation of CAD files, the preparation of photopolymerizable liquid crystal formulations suitable for manufacturing with this technique, the 4D printing of soft mechanical actuators, their morphological and structural characterization, and the study of the mechanical response of printed systems in response to the corresponding stimulus. The selected candidate, who must be highly motivated to acquire new knowledge, will benefit from a highly multidisciplinary and international training environment.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-14
Researcher: Beatriz Zornoza
Group: Membranas y Catálisis con Materiales Nanoestructurados (MECANOS)
Training programme title: Development of advanced membranes for environmental sustainability
Student: vacant
Combating climate change, due to high greenhouse gas emissions, especially CO2, is probably the greatest challenge humanity has faced in centuries. To address this challenge, it is crucial to improve the efficiency of energy generation and develop efficient technologies for carbon capture and storage. The JAE INTRO ICU training program aims to address this challenge by developing high-performance membranes containing functional nanostructured materials such as MOFs (metal-organic frameworks) and/or COFs (covalent organic frameworks). This program is aligned with INMA’s first strategic line as the Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence. The tasks to be developed will be: 1) synthesis of MOFs and/or COFs controlling their particle size, 2) preparation of polymeric and hybrid membranes containing the porous materials, 3) characterization of the materials and membranes using advanced techniques (XRD, FTIR, TGA-DSC, SEM, etc.) and 4) application of the membranes to gas separation, and specifically to the capture of CO2 (CO2/N2, post-combustion scenario) or CO2/CH4 (biogas enrichment). The student will be immersed in a multidisciplinary project that combines Chemistry, Materials Science and Chemical Engineering with applications in the fields of energy and the environment.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-15
Researcher: María Bernechea
Group: Películas y Partículas Nanoestructuradas (NFP)
Training programme title: Desarrollo de moléculas orgánicas solubles en agua para baterías de flujo rédox
Student: vacant
The transition to a sustainable and renewable energy model requires efficient and economical large-scale energy storage systems. Redox flow batteries are presented as a promising alternative to address this challenge. These devices are characterized by their scalability and ease of scaling power and energy independently, their durability, and their safety against fire or explosion risks.
The most widely used redox flow batteries currently use vanadium electrolytes, leading to the search for cheaper and more abundant alternatives, such as iron. However, all-iron flow batteries have low energy efficiency in aqueous electrolytes (<60%) due to the presence of parasitic reactions in the negative half-cell. To solve this problem, it is proposed to replace the Fe2+/Fe0 pair with water-soluble organic compounds with suitable redox properties, such as certain organic 4,4′-bipyridyl derivatives with ionic groups in their structure. Thus, this work proposes the development of an electrolyte (negolyte) based on these derivatives, which will be evaluated in an iron flow battery in collaboration with the Institute of Carbochemistry (CSIC).
TASKS:
1. Synthesis of anionic bipyridyl derivatives.
2. Evaluation of their redox properties in a half-cell and optimization of the negolyte composition.
3. Evaluation in a single-cell flow cell versus an iron electrolyte.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-16
Researcher: Carlos Téllez
Group: Membranas y Catálisis con Materiales Nanoestructurados (MECANOS)
Training programme title: Síntesis sostenibles de MOF para aplicación en separaciones gaseosas con membranas
Student: vacant
This work is part of a line of research into sustainable synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for application to membrane technology, which has proven effective for separation processes given their advantages in size, energy consumption, and waste generation. In gaseous separations, polymer membranes have a performance limit (Robeson’s upper limit) due to the inverse relationship between permeability and selectivity (key parameters in gas separation). One option to overcome this limit is mixed matrix membranes (MMMs), which improve polymer performance by incorporating porous fillers. MOFs are materials with high porosity and excellent chemical and thermal stability; furthermore, their organic-inorganic nature makes them compatible with polymers. MOF development should emphasize the synthesis of more sustainable processes, avoiding and reducing the use of solvents. In this context, the following tasks are proposed for the training of those who carry out this work in a critical and innovative research environment: 1. Literature review on the synthesis of MOFs using sustainable techniques. 2. Green synthesis of MOFs with the aim of controlling particle size and aggregation, vital in the preparation of MMMs. 3. Materials characterization (TGA, FTIR, Adsorption, SEM, etc.). 4. Preliminary preparation of MMMs and their application to the separation of mixtures with CO2.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-17
Researcher: Silvia Hernández
Group: Cristales Líquidos y Polímeros (CLIP)
Training programme title: Integration of DNA nanotechnology and functional polymers for gene therapy applications
Estudiante: vacant
Research Project Summary:
DNA nanotechnology enables the preparation of self-assembled nanostructures using DNA molecules (DNAnos) of interest for the transport of genetic material. Various approaches are currently being investigated to increase the stability of these DNAnos in biological media. The objective of this project is to develop hybrid DNAnos coated with biodegradable synthetic polymers as a strategy to increase their biostability and, consequently, improve their activity as therapeutic RNA nanocarriers. Specifically, we will focus on gene therapy targeting cardiac disease by integrating RNA sequences that have demonstrated regenerative potential after myocardial infarction. The tasks of this research project involve (1) the synthesis and characterization of polymers, (2) the preparation of DNAnos with cardiotherapeutic RNA sequences, (3) the formation and structural characterization of DNAnos-polymer hybrids, and (4) the study of the bioactivity of hybrid DNAnos in cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells.
Methodologies in which the candidate will be trained:
– Synthesis and characterization of organic polymers
– Development of self-assembled nanostructures using DNA nanotechnology
– Encapsulation of therapeutic nucleic acids
– Evaluation of the cytocompatibility, internalization, and therapeutic effect of hybrid DNA-noses
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-18
Researcher: Pilar Lobera
Group: Películas y Partículas Nanoestructuradas (NFP)
Training programme title: Advances in energy storage devices using sustainable nanomaterials
Student: vacant
Lithium-ion batteries dominate energy storage, but they primarily use graphite, cobalt, and lithium, which are expensive and scarce materials that Europe must import. Alternatives such as sodium-ion batteries are gaining relevance, as they can replace lithium in applications where high energy density is not crucial, but safety, environmental friendliness, and cost are. However, graphite cannot intercalate sodium ions due to its larger size. Furthermore, research into supercapacitors is essential, as, although they have a lower storage capacity, they offer high power density, a long cycle life, and rapid charge-discharge capability. Therefore, it is necessary to advance the development of electrode materials for sodium batteries and supercapacitors that are more affordable, sustainable, and efficient.
A multidisciplinary project is proposed that combines chemistry, materials science (electrode development), and chemical engineering (process and device development).
The specific objectives of the training program include:
*Synthesis of nanomaterials with morphological and textural control.
*Nanocomposites: nanomaterials will be incorporated into carbon-based compounds.
*Manufacture electrodes using the newly developed materials.
*Implement and evaluate these electrodes in sodium-ion batteries and supercapacitors, under different operating ranges, to explore their scalability and commercial viability.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-19
Researcher: Cristina Momblona
Group: Películas y Partículas Nanoestructuradas (NFP)
Training programme title: Semiconductores de perovskita para la producción de energía limpia
Student: vacant
This training program is aimed at students interested in semiconductors and their application in renewable energy. Students will be trained in the basic concepts of semiconductor materials, solar cell devices, and light emitters. Specifically, the program will address the synthesis of perovskite, a material with very promising optical properties, whose application in solar cells has already surpassed commercial silicon in terms of efficiency. This material will be implemented in multilayer devices, and its light absorption capacity—as a solar cell—and its lighting capacity—as a light emitting device—will be studied.
Perovskites are inexpensive semiconductor materials, easy to synthesize, and with exceptional optical properties. Modifying their chemical composition, through appropriately selected precursors, allows for very simple modifications of their optical properties. In this program, stable perovskites will be formulated and their behavior in both energy systems will be analyzed. The main tasks of the student during the period of enjoyment of the JAE INTRO ICUS 2025 Scholarship will be: A) Brief review of bibliography, B) Preparation of perovskite solutions, C) Fabrication and characterization of perovskite layers and D) Development and characterization of devices (photovoltaic and light emitting).
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-20
Researcher: Jesús del Barrio
Group: Cristales Líquidos y Polímeros (CLIP)
Training programme title: Redes poliméricas dinámicas: reconfigurables, inteligentes y sostenibles
Student: vacant
This proposal straddles the boundary between Polymer Science and Dynamic Covalent Chemistry. It aims to explore concepts such as the self-healing capacity and stimuli response of macromolecular materials. The materials of interest are polymer networks that feature dynamic crosslinking sites. These materials, called adaptable covalent networks (ACNs), are based on the use of specific catalysts or reversible covalent crosslinking systems. The application of ACNs in the manufacture of commercial materials and industrially relevant processes is still limited, but they offer enormous potential. The aim is to develop innovative strategies that leverage the synergistic behavior of functional groups in spatial proximity. This is an excellent opportunity to receive training in polymer synthesis and characterization, the physical chemistry of synthetic macromolecules, rheology, and polymer processing. Fundamental research in dynamically structured polymers is expected to have a direct impact on the group’s current projects and create new opportunities for the development of advanced materials such as injectable hydrogels, encapsulants for controlled drug release, and smart elastomers.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-21
Researcher: Teresa Sierra
Group: Cristales Líquidos y Polímeros (CLIP)
Training programme title: Nanopartículas basadas en dendrímeros para diagnóstico de cáncer mediante espectroscopia de fluorescencia
Student: vacant
This work is part of a project on the detection of tumor biomarkers in blood using dendrimers as probes and fluorescence spectroscopy as a noninvasive detection technique, meeting the criteria of liquid biopsy. Dendrimers are highly branched macromolecules with a defined internal structure and a large number of functional groups on the periphery. In work conducted in our group, we have demonstrated that nanoparticles formed by cationic dendrimers interact with serum proteins, allowing detection of the presence of the disease. The proposed work focuses on modifying the chemical characteristics of dendrimers to obtain nanoparticles with different surface functionalization, which will determine their interaction with blood serum proteins and their application as probes for cancer diagnosis.
Methodologies: Organic synthesis for the preparation of dendritic polymers. Chemical characterization using standard organic chemistry techniques: nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry. Preparation and characterization of nanoparticles: electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering. Study of nanoparticle interaction with serum proteins using thermal analysis techniques. Optimization of the sample preparation protocol for detection using patient serum. Study of samples using fluorescence spectroscopy. Analysis of results.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-22
Researcher: Cristina Piquer
Group: Multifunctional Molecular Magnetic Materials (M4)
Training programme title: Magnetic characterization of MoS2 nanoflowers with applications in spintronics and catalysis
Student: vacant
Transition metal chalcogenides with a 2D structure are key to the design of electronic devices due to their interesting properties in fields as diverse as photocatalysis and spintronics. At INMA, MoS-based nanophotocatalysts composed of intertwined sheets with a nanoflower-like morphology, with sulfide vacancies and partial oxidation of the Mo(IV) metal centers to Mo(V) and Mo(VI), forming oxysulfides, are being studied. This unique morphology has proven effective in improving their photocatalytic activity and is expected to be closely related to a change in the magnetic properties of these materials. For this reason, macro and microscopic magnetic characterization of these compounds is essential, as an in-depth understanding of their magnetic properties will lead to a better understanding of their improved photocatalytic properties.
At the macroscopic scale, bulk MoS2 exhibits diamagnetic behavior, while at the nanoscopic scale, it exhibits soft ferromagnetism. Theoretical studies suggest that the unique structure of nanoflowers will be associated with improved magnetic properties. This is one of the main objectives of this project: the candidate is expected to participate in the macroscopic magnetic characterization measurements that will be carried out at the University of Zaragoza.
At the microscopic scale, materials are studied using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS and EXAFS) with synchrotron radiation (ALBA). The combined analysis of these measurements with macroscopic magnetic characterization is essential for a deep understanding of their properties. The student will also participate in the analysis of XAS and EXAFS measurements to understand the basic principles of this technique.
Both tasks are extremely useful in the characterization of any material and are training that can be of great interest to both chemistry and physics students.
This work involves a collaboration between members of Department 2 (Materials for Energy and Environment) with extensive experience in the synthesis of nanomaterials and Department 5 (Multifunctional Magnetic Materials) experts in magnetostructural characterization.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-23
Researcher: Luis Oriol
Group: Cristales Líquidos y Polímeros (CLIP)
Training programme title: Hidrogeles basados en química click con agentes antimicrobianos conjugados
Student: vacant
Biocompatible, degradable hydrogels capable of releasing a drug or molecule of biological interest progressively or in response to an endogenous stimulus are materials of great interest in various medical applications. One of the CLiP group’s lines of research focuses on the preparation of hydrogels at room temperature and physiological pH, based on the simple mixing of two components and the spontaneous, rapid, and byproduct-free reaction of two easily accessible and low-cost functional groups. This project focuses on the synthesis of injectable hydrogels using click chemistry based on Michael reactions from water-soluble polymers and antimicrobial agents capable of conjugating and inducing hydrogel formation. In addition to the synthesis, their mechanical and structural properties will be studied, as well as the hydrogel’s degradation process with the subsequent release of the microbial agent (commercial antibiotics, peptides, or polyamino acids with reported bactericidal activity). Degradation and associated release will be assessed based on pH and reactive oxygen species typical of cellular environments with some type of pathology or infection, as stimuli that accelerate the release of the antimicrobial agent.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-24
Researcher: Scott G. Mitchell
Group: Biofuncionalización de Nanopartículas y Superficies (BIONANOSURF)
Training programme title: Sensor ambiental para el control de la proliferación de mohos en espacios museísticos
Student: vacant
Biodeterioration is one of the main causes of serious damage to sensitive materials that make up Cultural Heritage: wood, paper, textiles, parchment, leather, and paint. In addition to the degradation of these materials, there are associated health risks and the cost of decontaminating artifacts, exhibition halls, and warehouses, making it a priority for museums, archives, and authorities.
Our team develops antimicrobial materials with broad application possibilities.
This project involves the application of cyclodextrin nanosponges (CDNS) with a volatile organic compound (VOC) with antifungal action. It also includes the validation of this antifungal action under different environmental conditions, controlled in a climate chamber.
This project will provide interdisciplinary and practical training in Biotechnology, Materials Science, and Cultural Heritage Conservation. The selected candidate will apply CDNS with the previously selected VOC and develop protocols to verify their antifungal efficacy in controlled environments with a sealed atmosphere, simulating real-life conditions. Antifungal activity will be determined using MIC and MFC, as well as a portable luminometer. Training can be tailored to the interests of the selected individual.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-25
Researcher: Raluca Fratila
Group: Biofuncionalización de Nanopartículas y Superficies (BIONANOSURF)
Training programme title: Bioorthogonal chemistry as a tool for covalent binding of magnetic nanoparticles to cell membranes
Student: vacant
The training plan is part of the GALACTIC research project (“Remote GAting of Piezo1 channels with magnetic nanoparticle actuators” 2021 call for Knowledge Generation Projects). The objective is to develop a platform for the remote activation of Piezo1, a key mechanosensor channel in many physiological and pathological processes, using magnetic field applicators to remotely activate membrane-anchored magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) using various strategies. Specifically, this training plan will address the use of copper-free azide-alkyne bioorthogonal chemistry for the covalent attachment of MNPs to the membrane.
Methodologies in which the student will be trained:
1) Synthesis, characterization, and functionalization of MNPs for bioorthogonal chemistry: TEM, SEM, DLS, z-potential, FT-IR, thermogravimetric analysis, magnetic measurements, etc.
2) Metabolic glycoengineering for the expression of azide groups in the membrane: cell culture, cell viability, fluorescence microscopy, Western blot, flow cytometry.
3) Studies of covalent immobilization of MNPs to cell membranes: fluorescence microscopy, Western blot, flow cytometry.
4) Transversal skills related to the presentation of results in group seminars, teamwork, and scientific outreach.
It is also worth noting that the work falls within a field of enormous current relevance (the discovery of Piezo channels and bioorthogonal chemistry have recently been awarded the 2021 Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology and the 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, respectively).
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-26
Researcher: Olivier Roubeau
Group: Materiales Híbridos Estructurados (HYMAT)
Training programme title: Aerosol Jet printing of magnetocaloric materials for local magnetic cooling at low temperatures
Student: vacant
Magnetic refrigeration is an alternative to 3He-4He for temperatures below 1 K, and utilizes the strong magnetocaloric effect of paramagnetic materials. Some metal-organic materials could be particularly interesting for applications requiring local cooling, e.g., quantum microdevices. Our group has recently reported this potential with Gd formate thin films formed by aerosol jet printing (AJP).[ref] This versatile technique utilizes the flow of an aerosol formed from solutions or inks. Within the framework of our PID2023 project, we are developing our own AJP equipment, and we intend to involve students in its optimization and application. The work would involve: i) device optimization by reproducing the formation of Gd formate thin films; ii) preparation, characterization, and optimization of precursor inks for other magnetocaloric materials of interest; iii) fabrication of controlled-thickness thin films of these materials by AJP; iv) magneto-thermal characterization of these deposits to evaluate their local cooling capacity.
The student would be trained in: ink preparation and characterization (particularly viscosity); topographic and structural characterization of deposits (optical and electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction); determination of the magnetic and thermal properties of these deposits.
[ref] Chem. Mater., 2024, 36, 8239
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-27
Researcher: Rafael Martín Rapún
Group: Biofuncionalización de Nanopartículas y Superficies (BIONANOSURF)
Training programme title: Hybrid materials with antimicrobial activity
Student: vacant
Resistance to antimicrobial treatments is a global public health threat recognized by the World Health Organization. It is necessary to develop drugs with new mechanisms of action, but also to act to prevent infection through proper hygiene and the application of antimicrobial coatings that prevent microbial colonization of key surfaces, such as healthcare facilities, water pipes, and air filters.
In our group, we are working with materials that combine polypeptides with polyoxometalates (POMs) to obtain antimicrobial materials with excellent antibacterial and antibiofilm properties.
The project will involve the preparation of POM-polypeptide hybrid materials. The material design will seek antibacterial properties, although antifungal activity will also be evaluated.
This project will provide practical training in chemistry, materials science, and cross-disciplinary skills. It will allow for one- or two-step synthesis of inorganic compounds (polyoxometalates (POMs)) and organic compounds (monomers). You will use POM as an initiator for the polymerization of monomers to obtain hybrid polymers. To characterize polymers and compounds, you will use spectroscopic techniques—nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared—and chromatography. You will also study the self-assembly of materials using dynamic light scattering and electron microscopy. Finally, you will be able to evaluate the antimicrobial and antifungal activity of your materials using non-pathogenic model microorganisms. Training can be varied according to the interests and preferences of the selected candidate.
JAE INTRO ICU 2024
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-01
Researcher: Milagros Piñol
Group: Cristales Líquidos y Polímeros (CLiP)
Training programme title: Design, synthesis, processing and evaluation of new functional organic materials
Student: Víctor Manuel Antón Esteban
Organic materials, whether molecules or polymers, are highly adaptable, allowing the creation of functional materials with specific properties for applications such as nanomedicine or optical technologies. These advanced applications require a comprehensive approach that includes synthetic design, processing, structural characterization and precise application-oriented evaluation of their properties.
The successful applicant will be able to choose a specialized training program from the following:
EoI#1: Drug delivery systems based on stimuli-responsive polymeric hydro- and nanogels.
Objective: Preparation of macromolecules by spontaneous click reactions in aqueous phase to access nanogels and hydrogels with the ability to conjugate or encapsulate antibiotics, analgesics or anesthetics.
EoI#2: Thermoresponsive amphiphilic block copolymers for use as drug nanocarriers.
Aim: Obtaining block copolymers using controlled polymerizations and click chemistry reactions combined with self-assembly fabrication techniques such as nanoprecipitation or polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA).
EoI#3: Self-assembled DNA nanostructures for cardiotherapeutic microRNA delivery
Goal: Develop advanced DNA nanotechnology-based materials to promote cardiac regeneration through gene therapy.
EoI#4: Dendrimer-based nanoparticles for cancer diagnosis by fluorescence spectroscopy.
Objective: To modify the chemical characteristics of dendrimers to obtain nanoparticles with different surface functionalization, which will determine their interaction with blood serum proteins and their application as cancer diagnostic probe.
EoI#5: Functional nanostructures by nucleobase self-assembly
Aim: To study the formation of supramolecular organizations with molecules derived from nucleobases (adenine, thymine, etc) capable of forming hydrogen bonds, and giving rise to 1D nanostructures when suitably functionalized.
EoI#6: Functional supramolecular materials based on bent-core type units.
Objective: Preparation and characterization of new bent-core functional organic molecules and novel supramolecular materials: thermotropic and lyotropic liquid crystals, ionogels and 3D printing materials.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-02
Researcher: Miguel Ángel Laguna
Group: Materiales para la energía y el medioambiente (MEM)
Training programme title: Processing and characterization of materials for energy and environmental applications
Student: Hugo Romero Bernad
The successful candidate will be involved in one of the areas of the department related to the development of new materials for energy efficiency and environmental conservation. Specifically, the candidate may be involved in one of the following lines:
1) Development of highly efficient membranes for molecular separations in gas (CO2 capture) and liquid (pervaporation) phase. The main objective of this line is the preparation of polymeric and mixed membranes (composed of MOF-type porous nanostructured materials and polymer) that present good mechanical and thermal properties and that are sufficiently robust in operations of industrial interest. For this purpose, the fabrication of supported thin film membranes that allow higher permeations is proposed.
2) Development of nanomaterials for use in different devices related to clean energies. The synthesis of colloidal nanocrystalline semiconductors for their use in different devices related to clean energies will be addressed. This type of materials can constitute the active layer of a photovoltaic solar cell, can be used as photocatalysts for hydrogen production or pollutant removal and can be part of electrodes in energy storage systems (sodium-ion batteries or supercapacitors).
3) Nanostructured Flexible Substrates for their Application in Surface Amplified Raman Spectroscopy. The nanoimprint lithography (NIL) technique will be used for the replication of periodic structures with nanometric dimensions on thermoplastic surfaces by pressure and temperature effect. The work is aligned with the development of methodologies for the preparation of homogeneous substrates in transparent thermoplastic materials in a reproducible way, at a reasonable cost and with a uniform SERS (Surface Amplified Raman Spectroscopy) response.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-03
Researcher: José María de Teresa
Group: Física de Materiales y Nanosistemas (FMN)
Training programme title: Theoretical and experimental studies of the physics of materials and nanosystems
Student: vacant
One of these two training plans will be carried out, at the student’s choice:
1) Title: “Fabrication of metallic electrical contacts and electronic gate contacts (insulator-metal) using organometallic films and charged particle irradiations”. The main problem identified in the current technology for the fabrication of metallic and gate contacts is that the existing processes are slow because several lithography steps and complex material growth are needed. The alternative strategy we propose here is the use of organometallic films, such as palladium acetate, which in combination with focused ion and electron irradiation allow the creation of metal contacts by ion irradiation and gate contacts by electron and ion irradiation. The advantages of these strategies are the high speed of the process, no need for resins and the potential for scaling to wafer level. The student will work towards the goal of creating gate contacts on high electron mobility two-dimensional devices, receiving training in a wide range of experimental techniques including: organometallic film preparation, focused ion and electron beam irradiation, materials characterization (SEM, TEM, AFM, XPS) and electrical measurements.
2) Title: “Analysis and deposition of redox proteins at the nanoscale by atomic force microscopy”. In recent years it has been seen the great importance that quantum and mechanical properties have in biological processes. To understand these phenomena it is necessary to characterize them using spectroscopic or microscopic techniques. These studies not only provide insight into novel facets of living systems, but are also used for the development of quantum technologies. In this line, electron or redox exchange proteins are studied by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The two objectives proposed here are achievable in parallel with AFM and redox proteins: a) Analysis of the enzymatic mechanism of important flavoenzymes determining association pattern, conformational dynamics and intermolecular forces by ligand binding and catalysis. b) Development of a platform for ultrasensitive detection of redox proteins by EPR-on-chip. Dip pen AFM will be used.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-04
Researcher: Valeria Grazú
Group: Bio-nano-medicina (BNM)
Training programme title: Biological and biomedical applications of biomaterials and nanoparticles
Student: Mario Belio Miranda
INMA’s NanoBiomedicine Department is dedicated to research in the development of innovative nanoparticles and micro- and nanostructured materials to address unsolved challenges in various biological, biotechnological and biomedical applications. The successful applicant will be able to choose from the following specialized
specialized training program from among the following:
EoI#1: Stimulation of E-cadherin-dependent intracellular pathways with magnetic nanoparticles. OBJECTIVE: to use magnetic particles functionalized with different fragments of E-cadherin to generate a mechanical force that activates an important intracellular signaling pathway essential in cell proliferation and differentiation. This will allow activation of pathways involved in wound healing in a selective and distant manner.
EoI#2: Intracellular glucose depletion by combined therapy with bacterial extracellular vesicles (OMVs) and catalytic nanoparticles (NPs) as antitumor therapy. OBJECTIVE: Use of OMVs as a therapeutic agent against tumor cells via glucose depletion.
EoI#3: Fluorescent intracellular nanothermometry. OBJECTIVE: Development of intracellular nanothermometer for thermal study of cell physiology and cancer therapy by local magnetic hyperthermia.
EoI#4: Construcción de antenas fotónicas basadas en péptidos para fluorescencia de molécula única. OBJETIVO: Desarrollo de arreglos de nanopartículas de oro mediante enlazadores peptídicos para mejorar las medidas dinámicas de molécula única mediante microscopía de fluorescencia de reflexión interna total.
EoI#5: Macroanfífilos basados en híbridos polioxometalato-polipéptido. OBJETIVO: preparar una serie de materiales híbridos polioxometalato-polipéptido con propiedades
antimicrobianas sinérgicas.
Reference: Plan de formación INMA-05
Researchers: Cristina Piquer / Irene Calvo
Group: Radiación Sincrotrón y Materiales: Investigación Básica y Aplicaciones (RASMIA)
Training programme title: New synchrotron radiation-based microscopies for the study of magnetic materials of technological interest
Student: vacant
This project combines the learning of an innovative technique of coherent X-ray microscopy generated in synchrotron [1], with the study of new photosensitive semiconductor materials of great technological impact [2]. It is born from the collaboration between Miguel Anaya (ICMS, CSIC – University of Seville) and Irene Calvo (INMA, CSIC-UNIZAR), who will supervise the student.
The program focuses on the development of a mathematical algorithm to extract the structural information contained in diffraction patterns generated by the scattering of the CX beam by the crystalline object. To do this, the student will start with a literature review to become familiar with both the new photosensitive semiconductors and the use of CX to observe nanoscopic objects in 3D. In order to establish his new knowledge, the student will simulate the coherent diffraction patterns produced by halide perovskite crystalline grains of the order of 200-600 nm in size around different Bragg reflections by adapting a simulation software developed by I. Calvo. The second step will be to design the algorithm, from existing schemes in the research group of I. Calvo [3], to reconstruct such grains from the simulated data. Finally, the student will apply the developed algorithm to real diffraction patterns measured at the European X-ray free electron laser facility (XFEL , Germany).
The program includes the opportunity to attend experiments both at the XFEL and at several synchrotrons, including the European synchrotron ESRF (France). Finally, emphasis will be placed on developing the student’s oral communication skills: presentation of ideas and results to the collaborative group or in workshops and specialized schools such as Science with coherent X-rays at 3rd and 4th generation synchrotron sources or Ultrafast X-ray summer school. In addition, the student will learn the scientific language through the writing of a scientific paper. Thus, the student will be provided with skills at the frontier of knowledge in materials science as well as in processing and analysis of large amounts of data, creating a very interesting profile for a future in both academia and industry.
[1] C. Atlan et al., Nat. Mater, 22, 754, 2023.
[2] J. Ferrer Orri et al., Adv. Mater, 34, 2022.
[3] I. Calvo-Almazán, et al. Sci. Rep. 9, 2019.
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