The Bio-Nanotechnology Minor focuses on the interface between biomedical engineering and chemistry, and in this sense is a both a differentiation and specializing minor. Are you following a (bio)medical or chemistry study specialization? Then this minor is for you! Students from different specializations collaborate in the multi-disciplinary area of nanoparticle theory, learn to think and perform research in a multi-disciplinary context.

This minor is offered in both English and Dutch, depending on the semester (Dutch site).

Throughout the duration of the minor, you’ll learn to produce polymeric nanoparticles in practical classes, and functionalize them with biologically relevant groups or peptides. The physical properties of these bio-hybrid nanoparticles are characterized to ultimately study and analyze their interaction with biological systems (cells) with techniques like confocal microscopy (CLSM), DLS and SEM/EDX.

Do you want to learn how to think and work in a multi-disciplinary approach? In the practicals, (bio)-medical technology and (bio)-analytical chemistry these are brought together. (Bio)-medical students and chemistry students need to share expertise with each other, making multidisciplinary teamwork essential. The expertise from the different specializations is required at different times, so students learn to take the initiative and lead when needed. This comes together in a research proposal that students will write with their multidisciplinary team.

Topics

The following subjects are covered in this minor:

• Synthesis of nanoparticles
• Modification of nanoparticles
• Functionalizing nanoparticles
• Analysis and monitoring of nanoparticles with CLSM, DLS and SEM/EDX.

Type of minor

• This is a differentiation minor. In a differentiation minor, you’ll develop your professional competences in a different or wider context.
• This is also a specialization minor. It allows you to specialize further within your own professional profile.