Careers

EXIT071 is open for new internships! Do you want to be part of our start-up adventure and bring innovative analytical technology to the diagnostic and therapeutic industry?

Context of research

Exosomes are tiny vesicles released by cells with important diagnostic and therapeutic potential. In fact, they have a fundamental role in cell-cell communications and in the spreading of severe diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and certain types of cancer. Currently, analyzing exosomes is challenging, mainly because of the complexity of the sample (e.g., blood plasma, urine, saliva, cell cultures) from which they are extracted. State-of-the-art purification techniques have limitations, as they are based on density, size, and affinity, they are characterized by low yield and purity, and they are based on manual procedures, which may affect the repeatability of methods. We propose a novel technique for exosome separation, depletion zone isotachophoresis (dzITP), based on the use of an electrically driven microfluidic device, which can separate exosomes from contaminants based on electrophoretic mobility.

Your project

For optimal performance and versatility across various sample types, our microfluidic device requires further development of testing methods. Specifically, we aim to create strategies for sample separation based on analyte mobility and the physicochemical characteristics of the samples. To accomplish this goal, we intend to conduct a comparative study against established separation and chromatography techniques, such as capillary electrophoresis and sizeexclusion chromatography. Furthermore, we plan to integrate our device into experiments involving mass spectrometry, which holds immense potential for biomarker discovery across a wide range of therapeutic applications. Are you interested in an internship with us and contributing to the development of this groundbreaking technology, which may one day become a standard tool in the field of analytical chemistry?

Your profile

We are looking for master’s students for an internship of at least 6 months. The start day is flexible and from November 1st, 2023.

• Solid theoretical background in analytical methods (e.g., chromatographic techniques, capillary electrophoresis, mass spectrometry).

• Problem-solving abilities and result-oriented.

• Writing and communication skills in English.

• Team player: you should be able to communicate within an interdisciplinary team and have fun!

About EXIT071

We are a young and promising startup with a proven track record of funding, scientific, and business expertise. Our patented microfluidic technology was developed at Leiden University and is now licensed to EXIT071. We are part of a vibrant entrepreneurial environment at Leiden Bioscience Park.

Unique opportunity

This internship offers prospects to contribute to the rapidly developing industry of exosomes. We will strive for a balance of performing meaningful and manageable activities in line with the company’s objectives and individual’s personal goals. We offer a friendly learning and working environment and a regular fun activity outside work! There is also a possibility of employment by the end of the internship.

To apply, please email your CV and a motivation letter to Dr. Andrea Capuano at andrea@exit071.com