Microfluidic platform for point-of-care diagnostic sensor

The aim of this project is to establish a platform technology for disease diagnoses based on a patented CRISPR/Cas9-based DNA detection scheme. The proof-of-principle behind this DNA sensor has been successfully concluded in Cees Dekker's lab for diagnosing visceral leishmaniasis (VL) and will be utilized to create a simple, affordable, and sensitive diagnostic device with “sample-in answer-out” capabilities - that is, a practical Point-of-Care sensor.
The functional requirements for the diagnostic sensor were obtained from a comprehensive study conducted within the VL endemic region across Kenya and Uganda. As a way forward, we aim to realize the practical sensor as a microfluidic lab-on-a-chip platform, which could facilitate disease diagnoses from biological samples such as urine and blood.

This Master thesis project is part of a joint research work between the groups of Prof dr. Lina Sarro (Electronic Components, Technology and Materials (ECTM)) and of Prof. dr. Cees Dekker (Applied Sciences (AS)) in TU Delft under the direct supervision of Dr. Massimo Mastrangeli, assistant professor (ECTM) and Dr. Mitasha Bharadwaj, senior postdoc (AS).
The project includes the opportunity to be a part of an upcoming start-up based on this platform technology.

Assignment

This experimental project will involve:

• An extensive review of the state-of-the-art in lab-on-chip point-of-care devices;
• Design, dimensioning, simulation and iterative optimization of the microfluidic system;
• Device characterization and functionality demonstration;
• Reporting.

Requirements

You are an ambitious hands-on master student from Microelectronics, Biomedical Engineering or Applied Sciences. Experience with microfluidics and soft lithography is preferred. 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

Last modified: 2021-11-10