Research

Welcome to the Institute of Analytical Chemistry,

Chemo- and Biosensors

of the University of Regensburg.

We are one of the largest institutes for analytical chemistry in the German-speaking world. Our research covers various areas of analytical and bioanalytical chemistry. In particular, we employ optical, electrochemical, mass spectroscopic, radiometric analysis and interface biochemistry methods. One major goal is to develop new analytical a nd sensor methods, mainly for bioanalytical purposes, often in combination with microfluidic methods.

We offer our students a comprehensive study program within both our Bachelor’s curriculum and our Master’s program - the latter with a focus on bioanalytical chemistry. Our students learn the fundamentals of modern bioanalytical methods, biosensor and array technology, and analytical screening. We are integrated with the graduate schools of "Sensory Photoreceptors in Natural and Artificial Systems" and "Electronic Properties of Nanostructures Based on Carbon". Within this framework, we develop new bioanalytical methods based on the use of novel materials, including graphenes. The curriculum we offer makes studying chemistry in Regensburg (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) highly appealing, and paves the way to a professional carrier for our graduates.

Regarding research, we are mainly focused on bioanalytical methods. This includes new analytical methods based on the use of enzymes, antibodies and oligonucleotides. It includes the synthesis of novel fluorescent probes and sensors, and the development of new methods of imaging, often in combination with microscopy and primarily for the purpose of medical diagnosis. A second focus is on microfluidic and electrophoretic systems, often in combination with miniaturized electrochemical and mass spectroscopic detection. Electro-analytical research topics include a focus on scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and the merging of electrochemistry, capillary electrophoresis and mass spectroscopy, and their application to bioanalytical studies. Amperometric and piezoelectric transducers are used to develop biosensors using living cells for monitoring cytotoxicity, and for testing new pharmaceuticals. With the aid of surface plasma resonance (SPR)-based sensors, we are investigating the interaction of ligands with receptors, and the response of cells to chemical, biological or physical stimuli. Other areas of research include the analysis of individual enzyme molecules in femtoliter volumes, as well as the development of novel materials (for example, upconverting luminescent nanoparticles (UCLNPs), which are capable of converting IR excitation into visible luminescence) used as protein markers.

Our scientific papers appear in many high ranking journals. The professors of the Institute are active on the boards of various journals (Analytical Bioanalytical Chemistry; Sensors & Actuators, Microchimica Acta, Methods and Applications in Fluorescence). The Springer book-series "Bioanalytical Reviews" is edited by two professors of the Institute.

Our research is supported by the German Science Foundation, the Humboldt Foundation, the German International Exchange Program, the European Union, and other institutions such as the Sensor Cluster Bavaria. In collaboration with the Fraunhofer workgroup "Sensor Materials" in Regensburg, we are developing new approaches towards (nano)biosensing. With this, we offer our students and postdoctoral visitors excellent conditions for their research. We will be happy to answer any questions related to our study program and research.