Our research group is based in Malmö, Sweden at Malmö University. We are working in the field of
Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs). Below you can find more information about our current
research topics. Our laboratories are very well equipped and adjusted for organic and analytical
chemistry. We are looking for students educated in natural science (e.g. organic chemistry,
polymer chemistry, analytical chemistry, biology) willing to do internship or a master project in our
group.
Applications including CV, transcript of records and few words about yourself (in Polish or English)
should be send to: celina.wierzbicka@mah.se
Current research topics
Our research efforts focus on the development of polymeric or supramolecular recognition elements
for various applications. Presently we are engaged in several interdisciplinary research projects
addressing questions concerning host-guest chemistry, polymer chemistry, polymer structure and
morphology and applications in the areas of protein recognition, proteomics, biomarker analysis,
water treatment, chiral separations and chromogenic sensors.
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MIPs for the selective targeting of posttranslationally modified proteins and peptides
High performance MIPs for endocrine disruptors via combinatorial imprinting
Imprinted chromogenic and fluorogenic receptors for biological and environmental target analytes
Purification techniques for improved health care, safer food and cleaner environment
MIPs for radioactive waste reduction
Adaptable monolayers as 2D molecular recognition platforms
What is Molecular Imprinting ?
Robust molecular recognition elements with antibody like ability to bind and discriminate between
molecules can today be synthesised using molecular imprinting techniques. The most common
form of imprinting consists in the synthesis of reticulated polymers in the presence of
templates (T) which, widely defined, may range from being individual ions, small molecules or
biological macromolecules to microorganisms or crystal particles. Functional monomer acts as
anchors interacting with the template (1) and holding it in place during the subsequent
polymerization (2). Removal of the template from the formed polymer liberates binding
sites (3) complementary in shape and binding groups to the template structure. Hence, these
molecularly imprinted polymers or MIPs are functional in the sense that they exhibit a memory for
the template and can selectively bind it or related structures with high affinity, not uncommonly
similar to the way antibodies bind their antigens.
In spite of this advanced function and in contrast to the biological recognition elements, MIPs are
remarkably stable against mechanical stresses, high temperatures and pressures, intense
radiation, they are resistant against treatment with acid, base or metal ions, and stable in a wide
range of solvents. The storage endurance of the polymers is also very high. Furthermore, the
polymers can be used repeatedly without loss of their "memory effect". This in addition to the
relative ease of producing MIPs have led to a boom in the research and industrial interest in this
fascinating class of materials partly with the aim of finding alternatives to the labile biologically
derived recognition elements.