Nanopatterning of organic molecules bio- and photovoltaic

Position Overview

Are you a Master student in Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences & Technology (or related fields) looking for a final master project? We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our R&D team. This internship offers the unique chance to work in a start‑up environment as well as at the established research institute AMOLF.

The goal of this project is to develop a nanocontact printing technique to create nanopatterned films of organic molecules for biotech and photovoltaic applications. You will develop a fabrication method to create DNA curtains and a platform based on soft nano contact printing to generate biofunctional nanopatterns with organic layers such as streptavidin. Working with fluorescent inks on PEG‑functionalized glass, you will use TIRF microscopy to optimize the patterns.

In addition, you will apply the developed technique to photovoltaic devices, adjusting ink formulation to TOPO‑based inks and optimizing feature size to maximize the efficiency of metal halide perovskite solar cells.

The project will start on 1 September 2026 and last 6–10 months (duration depending on university requirements). This is a full‑time (32h) position.

• Optimize ink composition and printing parameters for the Ink‑Subtract‑Print protocol to balance adhesion, transfer efficiency, and pattern resolution.
• Fabricate and characterize nanopatterned Si master wafers with 10–1000nm features using e‑beam lithography, SEM, and AFM.
• Perform soft nano contact printing with PDMS stamps to transfer molecular nanopatterns onto glass and perovskite substrates.
• Functionalize glass substrates with PEG mixtures and assess pattern quality using TIRF microscopy.
• Optimize feature sizes for DNA trapping on streptavidin patterns and conduct extensive testing by forming DNA curtains.
• Optimize TOPO‑based inks in perovskite solar cells, using PLQY measurements to evaluate performance.

• Currently enrolled in a Master's degree program in Chemistry, Physics, Life Science & Technology, or a related field for the entire duration of the project.
• Motivated to work in both a research institute and a start‑up environment.
• Willingness to travel daily to Amsterdam Science Park.

• Ability to work carefully and independently, as well as part of a team.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Preferably hands‑on experience in a chemical laboratory.