MSc thesis project proposal

Smart material-based sensing in organs-on-chip

Organs-on-chip (OoCs) are microfluidic devices used to culture fundamental units of human organs in vitro under physiologically relevant conditions. Being able to actuate cell tissues and particularly sense their motion is critical to monitor and assist their maturation. At ECTM we have started developing a smart material-based OoC that can in principle both actuate cells and sense their contractions.

This project aims to demonstrate real-time sensing of living cells contraction through the smart material OoC. The activities will include the improvement of the clamping system, the characterization of a thinner smart substrate, patterning of polymer grooves to guide tissue growth, the elaboration of control electronics and user interface, and testing of the OoC in clinical environment (in collaboration with Leiden University Medical Center).

Assignment

This experimental project will be developed between ECTM and LUMC and will involve:

  • an extensive review of the related state-of-the-art in sensing and actuation in OoCs;
  • development and characterisation of a thin ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC) substrate;
  • updating and expanding the control electronics and user interface;
  • triggering cell growth using polymer microgrooves and sensing their contraction in real-time in clinical environment;
  • comprehensive reporting of the full experimental work.
Daily advisor: Paul Motreuil-Ragot.

Requirements

You are an ambitious hands-on master student from electronic or mechanical engineering, materials science or applied physics. You have good communication skills in English, you are independent and also a team player. The graduation project will have a total duration of 9 months.

If you are eager to work in a motivating atmosphere with highly skilled colleagues, then send us your CV!

Contact

dr. Massimo Mastrangeli

Electronic Components, Technology and Materials Group

Department of Microelectronics

Last modified: 2021-02-25