MSc thesis project proposal

Ultrasound neuromodulation on in-vitro neuronal cultures

Microelectrode arrays (MEA) enable the measurement and stimulation of the electrical activity of cultured cells, and they would benefit from the integration of other neuromodulation methods to study their effects on neurons. Focused ultrasound neuromodulation (FUS) can excite and inhibit the electrical activity of the nervous system in a non-invasive manner, and it can be focused with submillimetre precision, therefore allowing high stimulation selectivity.

Assignment

The student will perform the assignment at ECTM:

  • Duration: ~9 months.
  • Location: Philips Research, High Tech Campus Eindhoven
  • Collaboration with Erasmus MC for experiments on neurons

 

The expected activities to be carried out by the student are:

  • Characterization of the ultrasound transducers
  • Design and assembly of an experimental setup to integrate the ultrasound system with the MEA recording system
  • Design of the experiment and data analysis

Requirements

You are a motivated student eager for challenges. You have an electronics or biomedical background, and some programming skills. Knowledge on ultrasound and electrophysiology is very welcome but not a requirement. A pro-active attitude and good English communication skills are expected.

Contact

MSc Marta Saccher

Electronic Components, Technology and Materials Group

Department of Microelectronics

Last modified: 2023-01-12