PROPHOTOM · Protein Phototermal Optomechanical Analyzer

Label-free detection and discerning of single proteins is essential to reduce the impact of degenerative diseases (e.g. cancer) by its ultra-early detection as well as to expand our understanding on the processes taking place in living beings. The objective of this project is developing a new technique for the optomechanical label-free detection and characterization of single protein. The working principle of the proposed technique consist on illuminating a protein and transferring its photothermal heating to a suspended membrane on which it is adsorbed. This suspended membrane can mechanically oscillate in drum-like modes, so as the protein transfers its heat to the membrane, its mechanical properties will change, producing a shift in its resonance frequency. Therefore, tracking the resonance frequency as a function of the incident lights wavelength will allow discerning among different proteins by obtaining their absorption spectra.On the other hand, PROPHOTOM will have a high impact on my career. Implemented at TU Delft and supervised by Prof. Peter G. Steeneken and Dr. Farbod Alijani, this project will allow introducing myself into new subjects which the supervisors master (2D materials and condensed matter physics). Furthermore, the supervisors will benefit from my wide expertise on mechanical resonators for the optical characterization of biological samples, which guarantees the two-way transfer of knowledge. In addition to the scientific training, this project will also provide me different non-scientific skills, increasing my competencies and employability while allowing me developing an international network.Eventually, this project will contribute significantly to Europes economic and societal advance providing knowledge in different subjects (biophysics, biochemistry or medicine) and new technologies, contributing to the achievement of the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3 & 9) and Horizon Europe Missions (HEM cancer).