As Austria's largest research and technology organization for applied research, we are committed to making substantial contributions to solving the major challenges of our time—climate change and digitalization. We rely on our specific research, development, and technological competencies, which form the foundation of our commitment to excellence in all areas. With our open innovation culture and motivated, international teams, we work to position AIT as Austria's leading research institution at the highest international level and to make a positive contribution to the economy and society.

Our Center for Health & Bioresources is offering a master's thesis position at our Vienna location. The Molecular Diagnostics research group develops innovative technologies for next-generation molecular diagnostics. The research focus lies on the development of electrochemical biosensors, novel surface functionalizations, and microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems for the rapid and sensitive detection of nucleic acids. Interdisciplinary approaches from chemistry, materials science, electrochemistry, and molecular biology are combined to enable point-of-care diagnostics for future medical, veterinary, and environmental analytical applications.

As part of our team, you will work on your master's thesis within the framework of our research projects (e.g., SmartSens, FlexDNA, NanoPredict). Together with our interdisciplinary research team, you will contribute to the development of novel electrochemical biosensors for nucleic acid detection. The focus of the work lies on investigating surface chemistry, developing innovative electrochemical detection methods, and integrating these technologies into point-of-care systems.

Master's Thesis "Next-Generation Electrochemical Biosensors for Nucleic Acid Detection"

CENTER FOR HEALTH & BIORESOURCES

Your tasks:

• During your master's thesis, you will receive individual supervision from experienced scientists and work closely with our interdisciplinary research team. You will gain practical experience in the development of electrochemical biosensors as well as in the use of state-of-the-art surface chemistry methods (automated dispenser systems, various characterization tools such as SEM, AFM, FTIR, or Raman), sensor technology (multichannel electrodes), and molecular diagnostics.
• You will learn to independently address scientific questions—from experimental planning and execution to the evaluation and scientific documentation of results.
• Through access to modern, well-equipped laboratories and innovative technologies, you will continuously expand your professional and methodological competencies.
• Your master's thesis has a strong educational character and offers you the opportunity to actively participate in current research projects and gain valuable experience in an internationally recognized research environment.
• Conduct a literature review on topics such as surface chemistry, electrochemical biosensors, microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip, and molecular diagnostics.
• Investigate and optimize sensor surface chemistry for electrochemical nucleic acid detection.
• Evaluate novel electrochemical detection concepts.
• Characterize sensor and microfluidic materials for their compatibility with nucleic acid amplification (isothermal amplification or PCR) on-chip.
• Perform experimental work using cutting-edge electrochemical and surface characterization methods.
• Scientific documentation, data analysis, and presentation of results.

As an Ingenious Partner, you stand out due to:

• Ongoing master's studies in chemistry (preferred), physics, materials science, or a comparable natural science or technical degree program.
• Good knowledge in at least one of the following areas: surface chemistry, electrochemistry, analytical chemistry, biosensors, or microfluidics.
• Interest in experimental research and the development of innovative technologies for molecular diagnostics and point-of-care systems.
• Enjoyment of scientific work as well as planning, conducting, and evaluating experimental investigations.
• Programming skills (e.g., Python or MATLAB, or AI-supported) and experience in data analysis are advantageous but not required.
• Independent, structured, and meticulous way of working as well as high commitment and teamwork skills.
• Good English skills, both written and spoken (at least B2 level); knowledge of German is an advantage.

What you can expect:

• A remuneration of EUR 775.71 gross per month for 15 hours per week in accordance with the collective agreement.
• Intensive supervision and professional guidance from our experienced scientists.
• Among the highlights of our employee benefits are a canteen with meal subsidies, organic coffee, tea, and fruit baskets, health promotion offers and an occupational physician, additional days off for special life events, leisure subsidies, a voucher program, sports, cultural and team events, and many other benefits.

At AIT, we create an inclusive and family-friendly work environment that promotes equal opportunities and actively expands diversity within our workforce and leadership positions. Among other things, we are committed to increasing the proportion of women in our company and therefore particularly welcome applications from women.

Please submit your application documents, consisting of a CV, cover letter, proof of enrollment, transcripts (Transcript of Records), and proof of identity, online.

For further information, please contact: Dr. Eva Melnik, Eva.Melnik@ait.ac.at