University of Regensburg Trenner Faculty of Chemistry
Institute of Analytical Chemistry,
Chemo- and Biosensors

Welcome at the

Institute of Analytical Chemistry,

Chemo- and Biosensors

of the University of Regensburg.

We are one of the largest institutes of analytical chemistry within the German language area. Our research covers various areas of analytical and bioanalytical chemistry. In particular, we are using methods of optical, electrochemical, mass spectrometric and radiometric analysis and of interface (bio)chemistry. One major goal is to develop new analytical and sensory methods, mainly for bioanalytical purposes and often in combination with methods of microfluidics.

We are offering to our students a substantial study program both within our Bachelor curriculum and our Master program, the latter with a focus on bioanalytical chemistry. Our students are learning all the fundamentals of modern bioanalytical methods, of biosensor and array technology and of analytical screening. We are integrated into the graduate colleges on "Sensory Photoreceptors in Natural and Artificial Systems" and on "Electronic Properties of Nanostructures Based on Carbon". Within this framework we do research on new bioanalytical methods based on the use of novel materials including graphenes. The curriculum we are offering makes studying chemistry in Regensburg (a city of world cultural heritage) for sure quite attractive and will pave the way to a professional carrier of our graduates.

In research we are mainly focused on bioanalytical methods. This includes new analytical methods based on the use of enzymes, antibodies and oligonucleotides. It includes the synthesis of novel fluorescent probes and sensors, and the design of new methods of imaging, often in combination with microscopy and mainly for the purpose of medical diagnosis. A second focus is on microfluidic and electrophoretic systems, often in combination with miniaturized electrochemical and mass spectrometric detection. We also use live cells as sensors, for example to perform studies on the cytotoxicity and pharmaceutical activity of new chemical substances. By using surface plasma resonance, we are investigating the interaction of ligands with receptors, and the response of cells on chemical, biological or physical stimuli.

Our scientific papers usually are appearing in high ranking journals. The professors of the institute are active in the boards of various journals, for example "Angewandte Chemie". The Springer journal "Bioanalytical Reviews" is being edited by the three professors of the institute.

Our research is supported by the German Science Foundation, the Humboldt Foundation, the German International Exchange Program, the European Union, and other institutions such as the Sensor Cluster Bavaria. Along with the Fraunhofer workgroup "Sensor Materials" in Regensburg we are developing new approaches towards (nano)biosensing. We therefore believe that we are offering our students and postdoctoral visitors excellent conditions for their research. We will be happy to answer any questions related to our study program and research.


© 2008, Thomas Hirsch, Gisela Emmert.