Research Areas

Our research group gives emphasis on the use of an interplay and cutting-edge nanotechnologies for addressing a multitude of medical diagnostics applications. We synthetize nanoparticles for sensors surface modification, photonic devices and enhancement of the signal of electrochemical sensors. We are also exploring the use of layer-by-layer assembly to develop nanostructured scaffolds.

Our research group focuses on the design and fabrication of biomimetic systems, to closely mimic physicochemical, mechanical and biological singularities of natural systems. These systems can be tailored to bring bright solutions for functional and bioactive devices, mainly for sensor applications in the medical and environmental fields.

For example, we have strong knowledge in: creating plastic antibodies, through molecularly-imprinted polymers; construction of photonic crystals for colorimetric sensors, using several self-assembly methods of silica, poly(methyl methacrylate) or polystyrene nanoparticles; as well as nanoimprinted surfaces.

We not only take nature as a source of endless inspiration for the development of novel biosensors, but we also include biocompatible and environmentally friendly materials in our biosensors, considering their availability in the ecosystem and optical, mechanical, chemical and biological properties.

Furthermore, our chemical syntheses are performed with minimal or absent hazardous reagents.

Cell technology is our latest commitment for broadening our work range. Now, biosensors can be constructed to analyse a wide variety of cell-produced biomolecules, such as microRNAs, aptamers, antigens, or even extracellular vesicles, which brings lab research closer to the natural tissue environment.