Overview Project Courses Topic

Principal Investigator

Supervising Tutor

Radiation damage of SU-8 based resists

Jürgen Mohr

Frieder Koch

Photonic Integrated Device Characterization

Christian Koos

Aleksandar Nesic

Ultra-high reflectivity coatings on optical fibers

Christian Koos

Jörg Pfeifle

Optical Coherence Tomography for Material Characterization

Christian Koos

Simon Schneider

Non-linear femtosecond spectroscopy in solution / Photon-echo spectroscopy

Kappes/Unterreiner

Unterreiner

Curb detection using stereo vision

Christoph Stiller

Tobias Schwarze

Development of a piezo drive controlling application in C++/C#

Arndt Last

Harald Vogt

X-ray optical imaging detector system

Arndt Last

Arndt Last

Black Lipid Membranes

Ulrich Nienhaus

Yvonne Klapper

Fluorescence Correlation Microscopy Techniques

G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Pauline Maffre

Marker Development for Live Cell Imaging: Advanced Fluorescent Proteins

G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Anika Hense / Dr. Karin Nienhaus

Low-Temperature Fourier-Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy

G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Michael Horn

Quantitative Analysis of Palm Data

G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Yiming Li

Evaluation of Baseline Approaches for Object Tracking

Martin Lauer

Philip Lenz

Selective Bio-Functionalization of ThreeDimensional Microstructures

Franco Weth/ M. Bastmeyer

Bejamin Richter

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Measuring Gene Expression by Real-Time Fluorescence Spectrometry (qPCR)

Franco Weth/ M. Bastmeyer

Siyka Bozukowa

Analyzing phosphorylation events in cell-matrix contacts with superresolution microscopy and advanced image analysis

Franco Weth/ M. Bastmeyer

Michael Bachmann

Spintronics and Optronics with semiconductor quantum dots

Michael Hetterich/ Heinz Kalt

Andreas Merz

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014 Project course Seminar course

Title: Radiation damage of SU-8 based resists

Principal Investigator: Dr. Jürgen Mohr

Supervising Tutor: Dipl. Phys. Frieder Koch

Abstract: Phase contrast imaging using X-rays gained high interest over the recent years, as it promises applications in medical and material sciences. To facilitate this imaging technology, the IMT develops the required high aspect ratio grating structures for scientific and industrial partners. These grating structures are fabricated by deep X-ray lithography using SU-8 based photoresists and subsequent electroplating. During their use in imaging experiments, the gratings are exposed to high X-ray flux and suffer radiation damage, leading to a performance loss. This project course aims to investigate the causes for the performance loss and possible ways to overcome it.

Format: The student will get to know the techniques of X-Ray phase contrast imaging and investigate radiation damaged grating structures with optical and electronic microscopy. The work will partly be carried out in the clean rooms of the IMT.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

Project Course

Seminar Course

Title: Ultra-high reflectivity coatings on optical fibers Principal Investigator:

Prof. Dr. Christian Koos

Supervising Tutor:

Dipl.-Ing. Jörg Pfeifle

Abstract:

High quality Bragg mirrors using alternating /4-layers allow to fabricate near perfect mirrors for plane waves. However, if the light is to be reflected back into the guided mode of an optical fiber the effective reflectivity is reduced. This project is concerned with the optimization of the fiber-mirror interface for highest effective reflectivity and the investigation of the associated fabrication tolerances.

Format:

In the course of this project, the student will work with a state-of-the-art simulation tool (CST Mircowave Studio). A 3D model of fiber and mirror, based on AFM measurements of fabricated devices, will be created in order to simulate the effective reflectivity. Different shapes of the fiber-mirror interface will be investigated such as tilt and curvature.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

□ Project course □ Seminar course Title: Photonic Integrated Device Characterization

Principal Investigator: Prof. Dr. Christian Koos

Supervising Tutor: M. Sc. Aleksandar Nesic

Abstract: Photonic integrated devices are photonic circuits made on a single chip. When chips arrive from the production, the first step is to characterize them. This project course will provide students with methods and techniques for photonic integrated device characterization. At the beginning of the course, the students will have an introduction on device characterization techniques, the equipment that they will use, and safety precautions. Afterward, the students will initially work under supervision and later will continue to work independently. The goal of this project is to prepare students for independent lab work.

Format: The project course will last 1.5 weeks. The students will have to present their work in the form of a written report.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014 Project Course

Seminar Course

Optical Coherence Tomography for Material Characterization

Principal Investigator:

Prof. Christian Koos

Supervising Tutor:

Simon Schneider

Free-space laboratory OCT-system basing on a Michelson interferometer.

Abstract: Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a three-dimensional optical imaging technique featuring microscopic resolution and large penetration depth into scattering media. Because of its high resolution and its high sensitivity, OCT can be applied for analysis of microscopic structures in almost any kind of material. However, strongly scattering or absorbing media are highly demanding with regard to sensitivity and dynamic range. The characterization of nano-materials is possible when polarization dependent light scattering analysis is combined with OCT measurements. Features in the micrometre regime are visible in OCT scans and image processing can be applied. Future research comprises design and demonstration of OCT systems and corresponding processing algorithms heading towards comprehensive material characterization with OCT. Your work will contribute to this research. The particular project you will work on depends on your qualifications and personal preferences. Format: Theoretical and lab work on regular basis, e.g. several hours a week. Summary of the project will be a written report.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x

Project course

□ Seminar course

Title: Non-linear femtosecond spectroscopy in solution / Photon-echo spectroscopy

Principal Investigator: Kappes/Unterreiner

Supervising Tutor: Unterreiner

Abstract: Photon echo spectroscopy is a non-linear optical spectroscopy, which allows circumventing limitations of inhomogeneous linebroadening in solutions, quantifying solvent-solute interactions and monitoring coherent electron dynamics approaching femtosecond time-resolution. In this KSOP project course, femtosecond photon echo traces of organic dye molecules in polar solvents will be recorded and interpreted. Their analysis will be based on the multimode Brownian oscillator model interpolating between homogeneous and inhomogeneous line broadening. In complementary experiments, extended laser pulse characterization will be performed by advanced spectroscopic tools, such as autocorrelation techniques with and without frequency resolution, retrieving amplitude and phase information. The students will then learn how to analyze these nonlinear femtosecond transients in terms of retrieving time constants and lineshape parameters in four-wave mixing experiments to identify components of intra- and intermolecular interactions. Students should be familiar with the basic concepts of femtosecond spectroscopy, both theoretically, as well as experimentally, e.g., by having successfully completed the lab course “Femtosecond spectroscopy in solution” and by having attended the mandatory lecture “Spectroscopic Methods” in the second semester of the KSOP master programme.

Format: 16 lab units (8 days à 2 lab units) Available for several students.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course x Seminar course

Title: Curb detection using stereo vision

Principal Investigator: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christoph Stiller

Supervising Tutor: Tobias Schwarze

Abstract: Robots navigating autonomously in urban space need to be able to negotiate their environment. In this context the detection of curbs can be of great help, either to avoid dropoffs or to follow a certain path. Visually detecting curbs from 3D data provided by a stereo vision system is challenging due to heavy noise, therefore the 3D data is often combined with image features calculated from the input camera images (e.g., edges).

Format: In this combined seminar/project course different approaches towards visual detection of curbs from stereo-vision shall be investigated. During the project course one selected solution has to be implemented, basic knowledge of image processing algorithms will be helpful. Knowledge in a programming language of choice (e.g., Matlab, Python, C++) is required.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course □ Seminar course Title: Development of a piezo drive controlling application in C++/C#

Principal Investigator: Dr. Arndt Last

Supervising Tutor: Dipl.-Ing. Harald Vogt

Abstract: At the Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT)1 optical components for the X-ray regime are developed2. These optics require a careful alignment to other components or to the X-ray source. In some experiments it is also necessary to move the optical components in a predefined way. To realize a high-precision alignment, piezo drives are used. These motors offer the possibility to move and tilt low weight objects with high precision. Producers of piezo drives usually only provide a basic software development kit (SDK) which enables communication with the device, but no customized applications. Format: During this project course a graphical user interface (GUI) which includes all necessary functions for moving the piezo drives in a defined way should be developed. This should be done using Visual C++/C# for a piezo drive from the company mechonics3. Knowledge about C++/C# and hardware programming are required.

1

https://www.imt.kit.edu/ https://www.roentgenlinsen.de 3 http://www.mechonics.de/en/Default.aspx 2

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course

and/or

x Seminar course

Title: X-ray optical imaging detector system

Principal Investigator: Dr. Arndt Last

Supervising Tutor: Dr. Arndt Last

Abstract: At KIT/IMT1 we develop X-ray optical elements like refractive lenses2,3 or condenser optics for a photon energy range of about 8 keV to 100 keV. These optics are used in scientific analytics at synchrotron sources and X-ray tube sources. In many cases an imaging detector is needed to align the lenses to the beam and for image acquisition. A detector system has been developed at IMT based on a commercial Nikon digital camera. The mechanical support of this system allows for focusing and alignment of the detector.

Format: As a project course this work will be to improve the mechanical support of the detector system in a way it is easier to fabricate. The system would be explained and existing ideas described by the tutor. Knowledge of the CAD-system SolidEdge would be useful, but other sketches of an improved system would be ok as well. A seminar course would describe the requirements of imaging X-ray optical detector systems and their limitations. Personal visit at KIT/CN-IMT would be necessary to see the system and get oral informations.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course x Seminar course Title: Black Lipid Membranes

Principal Investigator:

Prof. Dr. G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Supervising Tutor:

Yvonne Klapper

Abstract:

An investigation of biological membranes and their interaction with molecules is often tricky and not possible in vivo. Therefore, in vitro studies on artificial membranes are essential. In this seminar/project course, the so called “Black Lipid Membrane” method will be used as a versatile platform to study planar lipid bilayers as membrane models. By using different lipids, not only their physical properties can be studied but also their interaction with proteins.

Format:

Seminar course: Literature search on experimental techniques to prepare and use BLMs. Project course: Prepare and investigate BLM (only after completing seminar course).

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course x Seminar course Title: Fluorescence Correlation Microscopy Techniques

Principal Investigator:

Prof. Dr. G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Supervising Tutor:

Pauline Maffre

Abstract:

Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) have found widespread application in technology and medicine. Whenever they come in contact with a living organism, interactions take place between the surfaces of the NPs and biomatter, in particular proteins, which are currently not well understood. We have introduced fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) and dual-focus FCS (2fFCS) to measure protein adsorption onto small NPs (~10 – 30 nm diameter). FCS allows us to measure, with subnanometer precision and as a function of protein concentration, the increase in hydrodynamic radius of the NPs due to protein adsorption.

Format:

Seminar course: Literature search on experimental techniques to investigate the interaction between nanoparticles and proteins. Project course: Investigate interaction between NPs and proteins presently under study via FCS (only after completing seminar course).

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course x Seminar course Title: Marker Development for Live Cell Imaging: Advanced Fluorescent Proteins

Principal Investigator:

Prof. Dr. G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Supervising Tutor:

Anika Hense / Dr. Karin Nienhaus

Abstract:

The goal of this seminar talk/project course is to learn about (advanced) fluorescent proteins that are used as genetically encoded markers in live cells. Important optical properties to consider are absorption, emission, quantum yield, photostability. Especially interesting are photoactivatable proteins, where the emission color/intensity can be changed by light (reversibly or irreversibly).

Format:

Seminar course: literature survey to get to know fluorescent proteins. Project course: Characterization of one fluorescent protein with optical spectroscopy techniques (absorption, emission, quantum yield, fluorescence life time…) (only after completing seminar course).

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course x Seminar course Title: Low-Temperature Fourier-Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy

Principal Investigator:

Prof. Dr. G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Supervising Tutor:

Michael Horn

Abstract:

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy over a wide temperature range (3 – 300 K) is a powerful tool for the investigation of protein dynamics and protein-ligand interactions in (heme) proteins. The goal of this seminar/project course is to learn the basics of FTIR spectroscopy on proteins. Special techniques: photolysis difference spectroscopy, low-temperature spectroscopy, temperature derivative spectroscopy.

Format:

Seminar course: FTIR spectroscopy on proteins: literature survey of what one can learn Project course: Investigate CO migration in a heme protein with FTIR spectroscopy (only after completing seminar course).

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

x Project course x Seminar course Title: Quantitative Analysis of Palm Data

Principal Investigator:

Prof. Dr. G. Ulrich Nienhaus

Supervising Tutor:

Yiming Li

Abstract:

Photoactivated localization microscopy is a novel optical imaging technique that can yield resolutions far beyond the diffraction limit. A quantitative analysis of PALM data requires to precisely count the number of fluorescent molecules that contribute to a PALM image. Blinking of the fluorophores may lead to overcounting of the molecules. Therefore, the student will be introduced to advanced analysis tools that are initially tested on simulated data and later applied to real data taken on biological samples.

Format:

Seminar course: literature survey on analysis tools used for PALM Project course: Application of analysis tools to simulated and real PALM data (only after completing the seminar course)

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014 Project course

Title: Evaluation of Baseline Approaches for Object Tracking

Principal Investigator: Dr. Martin Lauer

Supervising Tutor: Dipl.-Ing. Philip Lenz

Abstract: Object tracking is an important task for autonomous driving. There are a lot approaches using different techniques to solve this problem for several kinds of applications. A comparison of existing approaches is a fundamental requirement to push research. Format: In this project course, students will implement a simple baseline approach to solve the tracking problem for an existing dataset of inner-city traffic scenarios. This approach is used to compare existing approaches with an available implementation. Students should have programming experience in Python and/or C++.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

X Project course □ Seminar course

Title: Selective Bio-Functionalization of Three-Dimensional Microstructures

Principal Investigator:

Dr. Franco Weth / Prof. Dr. M. Bastmeyer

Supervising Tutor:

Benjamin Richter

Abstract:

We are using direct laser writing to fabricate a three-dimensional cell culture environment, which we can selectively functionalize afterwards. The course will give an introduction into current progress in this research topic. Later the student will assist and also get an actual own project. To visualize the cells on the samples we are using immunostaining and fluorescence microscopy.

Format:

The course will last over 1.5 weeks.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

X Project course □ Seminar course Title: Measuring Gene Expression by Real-Time Fluorescence Spectrometry (qPCR)

Principal Investigator: Dr. Franco Weth / Prof. Dr. M. Bastmeyer

Supervising Tutor: Siyka Bozukowa

Abstract: All cells of our bodies contain the same DNA, i.e., the same genes. Different cell types (e.g., nerve cells, liver cells, muscle cells), however, differ in the subset of genes they express. To express a gene means to first transcribe it into RNA and then translate it into the corresponding protein, which is the ultimate gene product. Brain cells, for example, express no or nearly no muscle cell specific genes and vice versa. Hence, quantifying the strength of gene expression is crucial for fully characterizing cells on a molecular level in basic research. Moreover, gene expression is also altered in many disease states, making the quantification of gene expression an important diagnostic issue. The most sensitive technique for this purpose is qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction). By this method, the RNA of a specific gene of interest is converted into DNA, which is subsequently replicated exponentially through an in vitro enzymatic reaction. A fluorophore (Sybr green) is included into the reaction to label the reaction products. Thus, the amplification can be followed by real-time fluorescence spectrometry. Analysis of the reaction kinetics allows inferring the amount of starting material, i.e., of the RNA transcribed from the gene of interest. This course will provide an experimental introduction to qPCR by measuring the expression of a mouse neuronal gene. Format: 1.5 weeks of full-time supervised lab work.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014

X Project course □ Seminar course Title: Analyzing phosphorylation events in cell-matrix contacts with superresolution microscopy and advanced image analysis

Principal Investigator: Dr. Franco Weth / Prof. Dr. M. Bastmeyer

Supervising Tutor: Michael Bachmann

Abstract: Cells adhere and respond to their environment with the help of cell-matrix contacts (also called focal contacts). These contacts are not only important for mechanical adhesion to the substrate but also for signaling with respect to cell proliferation, cell survival, and differentiation. Therefore, focal contacts and on/off states of the corresponding proteins are strictly regulated. Switching proteins on and off is often achieved by attaching a phosphate group to specific amino acids in this protein. With immunocytochemistry we can label these sites with fluorescent dyes and detect them. Preliminary results show that phosphorylation of important focal contact proteins shows a spatial pattern with a length scale below the resolution limit. Therefore, we make use of Superresolution Structured Illumination Microscopy (SR-SIM) to analyze localization and distribution of phosphorylated proteins in cell-matrix contacts with respect to the overall amount of proteins. For data analysis we will use established bioimaging software and automatic and semi-automatic algorithms. With this approach we will compare cells under standard conditions with drug inhibited cells and analyze changes in amount and distribution of focal contact proteins’ phosphorylation. Format: 1.5 weeks of full-time supervised lab work.

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KSOP M.Sc. Optics and Photonics | WS 2013/2014 X Project course X Seminar course

Title: Spintronics and Optronics with semiconductor quantum dots

Principal Investigator: Dr. habil Michael Hetterich/ Prof. Dr. Heinz Kalt

Supervising Tutor: Dipl. Phys. Andreas Merz ([email protected])

Abstract: In the frame of the spintronic project in the workgroup of Prof. Kalt, the use of single semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) for quantum bit (qubit) application is investigated. Therefor charge tuneable structures can be used to control the state filling of InAs QDs and to enhance the lifetime of the charge carriers in the QD. Furthermore, we enable spin manipulation in semiconductor devices via microwave electron spin resonance (ESR). The work consists of low temperature spectroscopy methods at high magnetic fields as well as sample preparation and processing techniques for the application in high field microwave cavities.

Format:

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