Live 3D airway models incorporating chemical sensors

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3D tissue models derived from patient cells are increasingly important in developing new therapies. 3D models are crucial for the design of tissue-specific and patient-specific models of human diseases - animal models cannot embrace such a diversity of genotypes and do not always reflect how a human disease works. The non-invasive measurement of pH and redox potential using (Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)), which reflect the metabolic status of cells and the capacity of tissues to repair and regenerate in 3D models, will enable effects of therapies to be monitored in a way that is not currently possible. In this project, we will integrate novel SERS sensors into a multicellular, live airway model - our goal is to monitor the response to therapy and the ability to repair with unparalleled spatial and temporal resolution across a range of genotypes (and disease phenotypes). The successful student will work in a dynamic multidisciplinary environment and receive training in Raman spectroscopy, microfabrication, 3D tissue models and cell culture.