Two NWO START-UP grants for ImPhys: David Maresca and Sebastian Weingärtner
The Dutch Research Council (NWO) has awarded nearly three million euros to seven recently appointed researchers in physics and chemistry through the START-UP programme. Both David Maresca and Sebastian Weingärtner have been awarded with a grant.
Biomolecules for measuring the degree of acidity using diagnostic ultrasound
David Maresca (Delft University of Technology)
The researchers will develop a biosensor at the nanoscale to map out biological processes using ultrasound. This makes it possible to observe the regulation of acidity, for example. The ultrasound biosensor consists of protein in gaseous state and is inspired by a green, fluorescent bacterium that occurs in nature. Using this nanotechnology, the researchers can observe inflammation in the vascular system, among other things.
Mapping out heart damage from radiation
Sebastian Weingärtner (Delft University of Technology)
Radiation is often used in cancer treatments, but may also lead to heart damage. The researchers will develop new quantitative methods for using MRI to map out the electrical properties of the hearts of patients who have been exposed to radiation. This makes it possible to detect damage to heart tissue earlier on and to better treat the side effects of radiation therapy.
More information about the NWO start-up programme can be found on the website of NWO.