Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry
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Topic Sequence-defined polymers intended as protein mimetics for diagnostics purposes
Supervisor Libor Kostka, PhD.
Consultant Tomáš Etrych, DSc.
Department Biomedical Polymers
Description The growing societal pressure to limit the utilization of animal-derived products, particularly those employed in diagnostic procedures, has created a novel avenue for the exploration of synthetic macromolecules. The replacement of proteins' intricate structure with synthetic material represents a significant challenge, yet it is one that can be overcome through the application of cutting-edge polymer synthesis techniques, including Photo-RAFT or CuRDRP. The objective of this dissertation is to synthesize sequentially defined polymers based on methacrylamides or methacrylates with varying polymer chain architectures. The principal focus of this thesis will be on the organic synthesis of new monomers and the development and optimization of their polymerizations. Furthermore, the candidate will gain expertise in instrumental techniques for polymer characterization, including SEC, A4F, LC-MS, and NMR. The evaluation of the prepared materials in biochemical applications will be conducted in collaboration with domestic and foreign research institutes. During the course of the study, the opportunity to undertake a collaborative internship abroad will be made available.
The candidate will be expected to possess a certain level of knowledge and experience in organic and/or macromolecular chemistry, as well as a willingness to learn new things in other fields, such as biochemistry or biology. The role will entail engaging and diverse work within a young, dynamic team in a well-equipped academic department.
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