Project Title: Biomacromolecular constructs as reactive interfaces for water purification membranes
Research Overview: Nicolau’s laboratory is directed towards the fundamental understanding of the interplay between nanomaterials and biomacromolecules for applications in water purification, sensors, and biology. Analytical tools employed include: rheological measurements, surface analysis techniques, microscopy (AFM, SEM, TEM), Surface Analysis (XPS, SEM, TEM, Ellipsometry), Atomic force measurements, dynamic light scattering (Zeta potential), HPLC, FTIR, UV-Vis and other spectroscopic techniques. The PR-CLIMB participants will engage in projects at the cross field between chemistry and biology. The following are the three main projects:
Water purification: synthesis and characterization of reactive membranes for degradation of contaminants.
Biology: enhancing cell-material interactions through bionanocomposites.
Sensors: development of autonomous sensors for the detection of emerging contaminants and metabolites.
Field of Chemistry: Analytical Chemistry/Materials Science and Engineering
Skills/Techniques: PR-CLIMB participants will be extremely well-versed in a variety of technical skills that can be applied to different facets of the STEM field. They will learn surface science and basic polymer chemistry, including polymer synthesis and post-modification, fabrication of functional membranes for water remediation, full assessment of membrane performance, protein analysis, cell culturing, etc.
Water purification: synthesis and characterization of reactive membranes for degradation of contaminants.
Biology: enhancing cell-material interactions through bionanocomposites.
Sensors: development of autonomous sensors for the detection of emerging contaminants and metabolites.
Field of Chemistry: Analytical Chemistry/Materials Science and Engineering
Skills/Techniques: PR-CLIMB participants will be extremely well-versed in a variety of technical skills that can be applied to different facets of the STEM field. They will learn surface science and basic polymer chemistry, including polymer synthesis and post-modification, fabrication of functional membranes for water remediation, full assessment of membrane performance, protein analysis, cell culturing, etc.