From Prototype to Scale: Modular Hardware Design for Next-Generation Affinity Separation
- Institute
- Lehrstuhl für Bioseparation Engineering (TUM-ED)
- Type
- Master's Thesis
- Content
- experimental theoretical constructive
- Description
Affinity membrane chromatography enables highly efficient capture of biomolecules, but the transfer of novel lab-scale concepts into robust, scalable hardware remains a key engineering challenge. At the Chair of Bioseparation Engineering (BioSE), a new platform technology for potential-controlled affinity membrane chromatography (pcMAC) is under active development, requiring dedicated module concepts compatible with scale-up, automation, and industrial operation.
This master’s thesis focuses on the mechanical design, construction, and further development of a modular scale-up unit for the pcMAC platform. The student will contribute to the conceptual and constructive design of key components, with particular emphasis on modularity, sealing concepts, manufacturability, and integration into existing chromatographic systems.
The work includes constructive support and generative design approaches, followed by rapid prototyping and iterative testing. Manufacturing will be carried out using state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technologies, including high-end FDM and SLA 3D printing. Depending on project progress, printed components may be evaluated in experimental setups to assess mechanical integrity, assembly, and functional suitability.
The project is embedded in a highly innovative and confidential research context with strong relevance for future scale-up and technology transfer.
The work is primarily conducted at the laboratories of the Munich Institute of Integrated Materials, Energy, and Process Engineering (MEP) and at the former Biotechnikum in the Mechanical Engineering Building (MW).
Supervision is provided by Eike K. Theel, who has extensive experience in experimental downstream processing, system integration, and the design of custom hardware for bioseparation applications. Close scientific guidance and regular meetings ensure structured progress and application-driven development.
Please submit a CV, a current transcript of records, and a short motivation statement (1–2 sentences) describing your interest in the topic and your preferred starting date to the contact address below.
For questions or further information, you are very welcome to contact me directly. I am also happy to discuss alternative or related thesis topics within the broader field of module design, scale-up, and bioseparation hardware.
Contact:
Eike K. Theel (he/him)
Chair of Bioseparation Engineering (BioSE), TUM
E-mail: eike.theel@tum.de
Phone: +49 89 289 52764- Requirements
- Background in mechanical engineering, biotechnology, bioprocess engineering, product development, or a related field.
- Interest in constructive design, prototyping, and technical system development.
- Basic experience with CAD and additive manufacturing is advantageous but not mandatory.
- Motivation to work independently on an application-driven engineering problem.
- Possible start
- sofort
- Contact
-
Eike Kristian Theel
Room: 5414.01.1013
Phone: 08928915761
eike.theeltum.de