Improving Surface Bio-Interfaces for Next-Generation Biosensing Platforms - Internship (4–12 months)
First seen by Alion on Oct 17, 2026.
Modern
biosensors and lab-on-chip devices depend on robust surface chemistry for the
selective detection of biomolecules and cells. At imec, these bio-interfaces
are a key enabler for advanced health technologies that combine microfluidics,
photonics, and sensing on chip. Examples include platforms for label-free cell
characterization in cell therapy workflows and photonic waveguide-based systems
for monitoring organ-on-chip models. Optimizing functional coatings in these
microfluidic environments is therefore essential to achieve high sensitivity,
specificity, and reproducibility.   In this
internship, the student will help develop and optimize surface
functionalization protocols for next-generation biosensing platforms that
operate with microfluidic channels. The work will involve preparing and testing
tailored surface coatings, evaluating antibody immobilization and target
capture, and comparing strategies to improve assay performance. The student
will also contribute to methods for assessing the quality of the
biofunctionalized surfaces, with a focus on reproducibility, stability, and
robustness. To support this, the project will combine laboratory experiments and
data analysis using physical characterization, fluorescence imaging, and
statistical design-of-experiments. The overall goal is to build robust antibody-based
interfaces that improve the performance of biosensors and related lab-on-chip
systems.   This internship
offers 4–12 months of hands-on research experience in imec’s multidisciplinary
innovation environment. It is well suited for a student with an interest in
surface chemistry, bio-interface engineering, or microfluidics, and offers the
opportunity to gain practical experience with advanced analytical techniques
and experimental design. The project includes independent laboratory work under
close supervision, combined with data analysis and scientific reporting. The
results will contribute to advanced biosensing technologies for diagnostics,
cell therapy, and personalized medicine. Type of internship : Master internship, Bachelor internship Duration : 4-12 months Required educational background : Bioscience Engineering, Biomedical engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics, Other University promotor : Philippe Vereecken (KU Leuven) Supervising scientist(s) : For further information or for application, please contact Thijs Roebroek ( [email protected] ) The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-192 . Mention this reference code in your application. Imec allowance will be provided. Applications should include the following information: resume motivation current study Incomplete applications will not be considered