In this project, we are researching novel, highly sensitive Raman spectroscopic gas measurement techniques. We achieve excellent selectivity so that we can identify and quantify almost all gaseous and volatile components of a sample simultaneously with a single measurement. An important focus of the project is research into innovative signal amplification mechanisms in order to detect even trace gases with the lowest concentrations. With our developments in fiber-enhanced (FERS) and cavity-enhanced (CERS) Raman gas spectroscopy, we are at the forefront of international research. Due to the high selectivity, we can also detect unknown substances in complex gas mixtures in an exploratory manner.

Highly sensitive Raman gas spectroscopy is therefore an extremely promising method for the analysis of gaseous and volatile biomarkers in exhaled gas and thus for early, non-invasive disease diagnostics and therapy monitoring.

PhD Topic Raman Gas Sensing (opens in new tab)

The project focuses on innovative Raman spectroscopic techniques for rapid and label-free monitoring of disease biomarkers and drug levels in body fluids. One focus here is on research into signal amplification techniques for the highly sensitive Raman spectroscopy of active pharmaceutical ingredients. An important goal of the project is to enable rapid therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) bedside at the point-of-care in order to achieve personalized treatment for individual patients. In the future, these developments will enable the efficient treatment of critical illnesses without the risk of treatment failure and without serious side effects.

PhD Topic Raman Spectroscopic Drug Sensing (opens in new tab)

The project investigates new parallelized techniques for rapid chemical imaging of biomedical processes. We are building on our work on fiber-based Raman spectroscopic imaging to generate high-resolution molecular-specific images of biomedical samples. These images can provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of disease, the diagnosis of pathologies and the evaluation of therapies. Raman spectroscopy is a non-invasive, non-contact, label-free and quantitative method that can be used in physiological, aqueous environments and is therefore excellently suited for biomedical applications.

PhD Topic Biomedical Imaging (opens in new tab)

The project focuses on new Raman spectroscopic techniques for pharmaceutical applications. We are interested, for example, in the molecular structure, composition and characterization of the properties of pharmaceutical active ingredients and formulations. One focus is on the development of new high-frequency-resolved and multifocal techniques for elucidating molecular mechanisms of action and drug-target interactions of active substances. Particularly important weak molecular interactions and binding assays will also be investigated.

PhD Topic Pharmaceutical Spectroscopy (opens in new tab)