PLATFORM: Exploring the Potential of Compartmentalisation for Selections and Ultra-high-throughput Screening

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We have assembled a team of scientists from Cambridge, France, Israel and the USA to develop the use of microdroplets in microfluidics as microreactors. These droplets (which measure a few millionth of a metre across) are equivalent to very small reaction flasks in which chemical or biological reactions can be performed on a minute scale. The droplets are made, manipulated and analysed in microfluidic systems, consisting of networks of microscopic channels through which the droplets flow in a stream of oil. It will be possible to make and analyse millions of droplets in an hour.Cambridge has pioneered the use of microdroplets for biological applications. Our current ambition is to maintain our lead in the area, while at the same time expanding the range of experiments that can be performed, and showing that the methodology has applications across biology and into chemistry and material sciences. The Platform grant will be used to fund our expanding research in this area. It will provide greater flexibility in our existing research in several ways, for example by providing extra funds for experienced researchers to spend more time with us, or to fund scientists who come with fellowships but no extra money to support their science. In particular it will make it easier for us to send our researchers to learn techniques in collaborating laboratories in France, Israel and the USA. It will also allow us to be adventurous with our science and start exploratory new projects, especially ones that cross normal scientific boundaries.