Development of enhanced bubbling system via sparger for RASER-NMR

Job vacancy: From now on

Description

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique that uses the magnetic properties of selected atomic nuclei (i.e. 1H, 13C, 15N, 19F) to investigate molecular structures and the dynamics of processes. The detection signal can be amplified up to sub-millihertz range with RASER (Radio-frequency Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation), which is an innovative technique in magnetic resonance. RASER operational principles are similar to a laser, but in the radio-frequency domain, where it creates a population inversion in nuclear spins, typically using para-hydrogen as a pumping mechanism, and coupling it with a high-Q resonator to achieve stimulated emission of radio waves.

In our research group in the Institute for Microstructure Technology (IMT), we focus on enhancing RASER-NMR throughput. In order to achieve the highest efficiency of the spin exchange, the pumped gaseuous para-hydrogen should be equivalently distributed within the sample volume. One of the prospective approaches includes implementation of the gas spargers, which is widely utilized in the gas delivery in liquids for filtration, bio – reactors, pharmacology, and food processing.

This project will involve tasks including:
• Developing a novel gas bubbling system for operation in confined spaces;
• Simulation of the prospective operation chamber;
• Design and fabrication of components with machining or additive manufacturing;
• Evaluation of the spin transfer efficiency;
• NMR spectroscopy with RASER.

You will be part of a larger team within the Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT), which offers you the possibility to fabricate and test the processes and devices and gives you the opportunity to co-author conference and/or journal publications. The candidates at the later stages of the Bachelor/Master programs are encouraged to apply, and the position can be extended to the Thesis topic.