Scanning Probe Lithography for Biomaterials and Bioelectronics

Our group focuses on the advancement and application of dip-pen nanolithography and related techniques like polymer pen lithography (PPL) for the site-specific chemical and bio-chemical modification of surfaces and devices.

The Scanning Probe Lithography for Biomaterials and Bioelectronics Group at INTOur research is aimed at the advancement and application of Scanning Probe Lithography (SPL) methods, in particular Dip-Pen Nanolithography (DPN) and related methods like e.g. Polymer Pen Lithography (PPL) and Microchannel Cantilever Spotting (µCS).

These SPL methods are versatile tools, combining many advantages of electron beam lithography, inkjet printing and microcontact printing in relation to resolution, integration and throughput. These methods are of particular interest when working with sensitive biological materials, since they work at mild process parameters and need no lift off processes (with the associated solvents or etching processes). Furthermore, the methods allows for "multiplexing", i.e. the parallel application of different inks within a pattern. Learn more about specific implementations and applications on our reseach page or browse our publications.

News

Schematic of a molecularly imprinted sensor showing rebinding, washing, and electrochemical response.
Electrochemical Sensing:

 

"Polyoxometalate@Metal–Organic Framework-Based Imprinted Electrochemical Sensor for Dopamine Detection" by Wang et al. in Small Sci. 6 (2026) e70380

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Kaan Yapici M. Hirtz
New Group Member:

We welcome Kaan Yapici in our group!

Diagram showing CuAAC and TYC chemical reactions for surface patterning.
Click-Chemistry:

 

"Comparative kinetics of CuAAC and thiol–yne click chemistries for high-density streptavidin immobilization on alkyne-terminated glass surfaces" by Dadfar et al. in Surf. Interfaces. 98 (2026) 110387

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Smiling man in a blue suit and a graduation cap decorated with photos, standing before a statue.
Gratulations:

We gratulate George for successful defense of his PhD!

PPL Stamp printing an multiplexed Assay
Microarrays:

"Immunoassay Fabrication and Device Functionalization by Scanning Probe Lithography" by Vasantham et al. in Immunoassays, A. M. Raem, P. Rauch (eds.) Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg (2026) 435-447

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UMAP Plot of extracted Concepts
Machine Learning:

"Predicting new research directions in materials science using large language models and concept graphs" by Marwitz et al. in Nat. Mach. Intell. 8 (2026) 535-544

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