VIT Recruiting Life Science Candidates – Apply Now!
Applications are invited for the Post of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for the Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB) Funded Project at Centre for Nanobiotechnology (CNBT), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) – Vellore.
Job Title: JRF (Junior Research Fellow)
Institute: VIT
Location: Vellore
Title of the Project: Bio-catalytically Triggered Plasmonic Nanoparticle Etching based Fiber Optic Immunosensor for Early Detection of Neurodegenerative Disease Biomarker
Qualification: M.Sc., Chemistry/Nanoscience/Life Sciences with NET/GATE or M.Tech., Biotechnology/Biomedical Engineering/ Nanotechnology/Materials Science & Engineering (as per SERB norms)
Desirable: Candidates having knowledge in Nanomaterial synthesis and/or Biosensors will be preferred.
VIT Recruiting Life Science Candidates. The skills required are : Candidates having knowledge in Nanomaterial synthesis and/or Biosensors will be preferred.
Stipend: Rs. 31,000/- + 8% HRA per month (for first two years), Rs. 35,000/- per month + 8% HRA (for the third year) for candidate with CSIR-NET/GATE. For non CSIR-NET/GATE qualified candidates, the stipend will be paid as per the Institute’s norms.
Sponsoring Agency: Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB)
Duration: 3 years
VIT Recruiting Life Science Candidates. How to apply:
- Send your resume along with relevant documents pertaining to the details of qualifications, scientific accomplishments, experience (if any) and latest passport size photo etc. on or before (30/09/2023) through online http://careers.vit.ac.in
- To apply online http://careers.vit.ac.in, Indicate project title, and the post applied for in the application. No TA and DA will be paid for appearing in the interview.
- Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview at a later date, which will be intimated by email.
VIT Recruiting Life Science Candidates. The possible interview Q & A:
Q: Can you explain your experience with nanomaterial synthesis and how it relates to this project?
A: During my MSc in Materials Science, I conducted research on the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles, particularly gold and silver nanoparticles, using various methods such as chemical reduction and sol-gel processes. This experience has provided me with a strong foundation in nanomaterial synthesis techniques, which I believe can be applied effectively in this project to create the plasmonic nanoparticles needed for the immunosensor.
Q: What is the significance of using plasmonic nanoparticles in the context of a fiber optic immunosensor for biomarker detection?
A: Plasmonic nanoparticles have unique optical properties that can enhance signal sensitivity in biosensors. In this project, plasmonic nanoparticles will act as signal amplifiers, interacting with the neurodegenerative disease biomarkers and catalyzing their etching. This interaction results in a measurable change in the optical properties of the nanoparticles, which can be detected using a fiber optic system. This combination offers high sensitivity and specificity in biomarker detection.
Q: Could you describe any relevant experience you have with biosensors or similar analytical techniques?
A: During my previous research projects, I worked on the development of biosensors for detecting specific biomolecules. I have experience in surface functionalization of sensors with bio-recognition elements such as antibodies and enzymes. Additionally, I have designed and conducted experiments to evaluate the performance of these biosensors. My background in biosensors aligns well with the objectives of this project.
Q: How do you plan to approach the bio-catalytic aspect of this project, and what enzymes or catalytic processes do you think might be relevant?
A: I envision exploring various enzymes or catalytic processes that can specifically target the neurodegenerative disease biomarker of interest. Enzymes with high selectivity and efficiency in cleaving specific biomolecules will be a focus of my investigation. By immobilizing these enzymes onto the plasmonic nanoparticles, we can initiate the catalytic etching process, leading to measurable changes in the nanoparticles’ optical properties.
Q: In a research project like this, collaboration and communication are crucial. Can you share an example of a successful collaboration experience from your academic or professional background?
A: During my master’s program, I collaborated with a multidisciplinary research team on a project involving the development of a biosensor for environmental monitoring. I effectively communicated with chemists, biologists, and engineers to integrate our respective expertise. We achieved our project goals efficiently by sharing ideas, troubleshooting challenges, and presenting our findings collectively at conferences. This experience highlights my ability to collaborate and contribute to a cohesive research team.
