The Siwy group investigates the underlying physics of ionic and molecular transport at the nanoscale. We fabricate nanopores in a variety of materials with opening diameter as small as few nanometers. In one direction of research, we use the structures as templates to prepare pores, which exhibit similar transport properties as these of biological channels in a cell membrane. We are also interested in preparing ionic equivalents of electronic devices, such as diodes and transistors, and combining them in circuits. Another direction of research involves using pores as sensors for individual molecules, particles (which are our model system for viruses) and cells.
Group webpage: https://www.physics.uci.edu/~zsiwy/
Students will learn nanofabrication tools to prepare nanopores with tunable geometry and electrochemical properties, and characterize their transport properties. The students will learn data analysis and if interested numerical modeling of ionic and fluid transport.
In academic year, the student should commit at least 10 hours per week for research. In order to be financially supported in summer, the students are expected to work full time.