Karina Thånell
Principal Investigator
Kristina Thånell is a researcher and Team Manager at MAX IV, Science Division. She is also Principal investigator at NanoLund: Centre for Nanoscience. Her primary research topic is bological and biomedical imaging.
Project in fourth call:
Developing a nano-spectral imaging approach for biological and biomedical samples
Principal Investigator
Kristina Thånell is a researcher and Team Manager at MAX IV, Science Division. She is also Principal investigator at NanoLund: Centre for Nanoscience. Her primary research topic is bological and biomedical imaging.
Project in fourth call:
Developing a nano-spectral imaging approach for biological and biomedical samples
Principal Investigator
Kristina Thånell is a researcher and Team Manager at MAX IV, Science Division. She is also Principal investigator at NanoLund: Centre for Nanoscience. Her primary research topic is bological and biomedical imaging.
Project in fourth call:
Developing a nano-spectral imaging approach for biological and biomedical samples
Short Biography
Coming soon
AMBER postdoctoral fellowship subject (fourth call)
Developing a nano-spectral imaging approach for biological and biomedical samples
In biological samples, the complex chemical and structural composition on the microscopic level translates into the function on a macroscopic level. Imaging biomolecules (like proteins, lipids and carbohydrates), together with trace elements (metals), is vital in understanding complex biological processes, disease mechanisms, or the effects of treatments. The role of trace elements in biology can be difficult to measure, but synchrotron techniques like Scanning Transmission X-ray Microscopy allow for high resolution images with chemical specificity. The application of these techniques to biological and biomedical samples is, however, not fully developed. The aim of the project is therefore to explore the use of STXM for biological samples and integrate it into a multi-modal imaging platform, using complementary imaging techniques such as super-resolution Infrared microscopies (AFM-IR & O-PTIR), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) mapping and/or Photoemission Electron Microscopy (PEEM) offering detailed structural, chemical, and functional information. This holistic approach of label-free techniques will enable deeper insights into the molecular and cellular architecture of both biological tissues and organic materials.
A critical component of the project is the development of sample preparation strategies, essential for preserving the integrity of sensitive biological and biomedical samples, as well as minimizing beam-induced damage during imaging. Techniques such as cryo-fixation, embedding, and the use of protective coatings will be explored to ensure that samples remain in their native state throughout the imaging process. Additionally, the project will investigate the optimization of imaging parameters, such as dose management and exposure time, to further reduce the risk of beam damage.
Overall, this project aims to explore, develop and integrate advanced imaging modalities towards their use for biological samples. Together with our collaborators, we have identified possible model systems that have historically been difficult to map nanospectrally: biomedical and forensic tissue samples, and organic by-products of the wood industry, which can be further narrowed down together with the successful candidate.
Location: Lund, Sweden
Organisation: MAX IV Laboratory
Links
AMBER call in EURAXESS main call (starting point for application)
Karina Thånell's profile in Lund University Research portal
MAX IV Science Division's profile in Lund University Research portal