Electrically controlled fluidic networks – applications in life science

Imec is a leader on Si-based technologies, creating sophisticated devices that integrate optics, electronics, fluidics among others. Our technology has already benefited applications in DNA sequencing, cell sorter, among others. It can also offer unprecedented precision and efficiency in biochemical processes with the potential to address the rapidly growing demand for efficient, scalable solutions in DNA synthesis and manipulation, with potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and synthetic biology

To fully benefit from these advantages, we target a fluidic network independent of external valves and pumps, fostering portability of more complex devices. This will allow point-of-need applications and widespread use. It will also reduce the environmental footprint of important processes.

The first implementation envisioned aims at the multi-step reaction and purification of biomolecules (e.g. DNA). For that, the device has to: deliver the reagents to the correct chambers; create de conditions for the most efficient reaction (e.g. temperature and flow control); and correctly isolate the intended product from by-products or unconsumed reagents.

In this context, the PhD candidate would focus in:

• Understanding the phenomena making this control possible (e.g. electrophoresis, electroosmosis, etc.). Some of the effects to be investigated are:
• the behavior of the electric double layer at higher voltages. This will be important in the overall control of the network, especially if new materials are introduced.
• the requirements/possibilities to fully reverse the flow and regenerate the solutions withing short cycles, allowing long operations required for deployable devices.
• the interaction of biomolecules with the surface and with each other in the EDL, and how they impact the behavior of the flow. This will be critical to the reaction modules.
• Investigate the effect of different oxides (and oxide deposition methods) in the interaction of the molecues with the surface. Build up on preliminary results indicating that different silica structures would show different behaviors. Understand the causes of these differences, how to best control and profit from them.  
• Proposing alternatives to efficiently manipulate liquids/samples using these phenomena. The effect of diffusion and surface interaction resulting in loss of resolution are important problems to be investigated.
• Investigating designs and methods to make each operation integrable in a network. Most operations were not developed for integrated function, and studies regarding the effect of the reagents and development of alternative routes might be necessary.
• Proposing designs to integrate all required functions in a single network. Investigate the possibility of using panel technology for larger area devices. Also, investigate the use of dry lodi phases/sieving matrices (porous material) to increase separation and reaction capabilities.

The work will involve theoretical analysis, simulations and experimental work. The student will work at imec’s clean room and biolabs.