Miniaturization in Analytical Sciences

Advanced methods for the determination of species of interest in the life-sciences are to be developed. The main focus will be on finding novel solutions to overcome the problems of sample complexity in applications such as proteomics and clinical analysis. Different routes will be investigated. Efficient capillary based separation methods such as zone electrophoresis and capillary electrochromatography are to be combined to create 2D-systems to achieve ultra-high peak capacities. Alternatively, or in combination, pre-extraction methods to partially eliminate the sample matrix, based on recognition elements such as antibodies immobilized on beads, are to be further developed. This is to be carried out on-line in a microfluidic system prior to quantification by electrophoresis. Both approaches are also to be implemented on miniaturized "Lab-on-Chip"-platforms. For more information on our research group see: www.chemie.unibas.ch/~hauser/