Fabrication of Novel Diffusers for Lens-Free Imaging

Lens-free imaging (LFI) is a powerful tool for life science applications where a high-field view is needed and traditional microscopes are too expensive or bulky, including compact diagnostics, in-line bioprocess monitoring, and automated cell culture sorting. Advancing the performance of LFI systems offers the potential for improving patient diagnostics and care while simultaneously lowering costs.

A major challenge for LFI is to improve its resolution. One of the resolution bottlenecks comes from the limited receptive angle of the image sensor. To mitigate this issue, light must be scattered to generate a sufficiently random set of angles and intensities to achieve high quality images, requiring a diffuser that can simultaneously scatter and absorb light across multiple length scales. Further, for widespread use in devices such a diffuser must be chemically and mechanically robust and manufacturable at an affordable price point.

Nanoimprint lithography (NIL) provides a robust method for the cost-effective replication of micro- and nanoscale features with a wide range of materials. The primary task of the student will be to develop the fabrication of diffusers for LFI applications using NIL, exploring the use of different template structures and imprint materials to achieve the targeted performance. He/She will receive training on the relevant processing and characterization tools. This project will be performed in collaboration with the Life Science department at imec, and in addition to fabricating the structures the student will have the opportunity to test the diffusers in functional imaging devices.

Type of Project: Masters thesis or internship
 
Master’s degree: Master of Science, Master of Engineering Science
 
Supervisor: Jan Genoe
 
Responsible scientists: For further information or for application, please contact Matt Traub (matt.traub@imec.be) or Mahyar Mazloumi (mahyar.mazloumi@imec.be)