Nano-Sensors; in Life, Plant and AgroFood

Building on the foundations laid in nano-Introduction , this course will focus on applications of "nano" for sensors development in life, plant, and agrofood sciences. Sensors are our main tool for investigating and understanding the world around us. They are widely used for the detection of various analytes across many fields, including environmental analysis, medical applications, and forensic science.

In this course, various sensors, as well as devices to use them, will be presented, from colorimetric (e.g. gold nanoparticles in a lateral flow assay for pregnancy or corona tests), and fluorescent sensors (e.g quantum dots for detection of heavy metals in soil and water) to the use of magnetic nanoparticles for sample preparation (e.g. DNA and RNA extraction and purification).

In laboratory classes, nano-sensors will be synthesized and applied for the detection of analytes in different matrices (plant, soil, water, food). A unique experiment will consist of a lab-at-home box that allows students to perform some of the experimental work at home. 3D printing. During this course, you will also get acquainted with the basic principles of DIY and Open Hardware by learning and using fabrication techniques such as 3D printing and laser cutting, and microcontroller programming.

Ethical aspects of sensor development and use will be covered, and state-of-the-art sensor applications in the real world will be explored through literature analysis, an excursion, and guest lectures.

• Summarise, explain, review, and criticise scientific literature in the field of nanosensors

• Explain analytes, nanomaterials, surface modifications, and molecular interactions

• Evaluate which nanosensors and devices are most appropriate for specific real-world applications

• Apply analytical methodologies for the detection of nanomaterial-based sensor-analyte interactions

• Use computer image programs for analytes determination using nanosensors

• Process and interpret the data from various sensors used in the laboratory (i.e. UV-Vis and Fluorescence)

• Plan, design, and invent new applications of nanosensors in Plant, Life, and Agrofood

• ? (50%)
• ? (10%) Performance during the laboratory classes.
• ? (40%) Quality of the report on the experiments, literature assignments and excursions. In case of a failed assigmnent, students can hand in a revised version one week before the next re-sit period.

ZSS06100 Laboratory Safety BNT21306 nano-Introduction into Life, Plant, and AgroFood