Development of Automation and MEMS Technologies for Biomedical Engineering

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This research program will develop novel automation technologies and advanced MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems) to advance the state of the art in biomedical instrumentation used in cell-based research. The motivation is to develop leading edge instrumentation for applications toward the early detection of disease, and the development of new cell-based therapies. In particular, the research program will explore two areas: (i) development of automation technologies to systematically analyze and manipulate live cells, and (ii) development of MEMS devices to capture, sort and array live cells. Automation technologies can perform the highly repetitive and monotonous tasks associated with the analysis and manipulation of cells in-vitro (i.e. in a Petri dish) in statistical amounts (i.e. multi-thousands), along with the required precision, reliability and speed. Additionally, MEMS technology provides for unique ways to selectively and efficiently sort, capture and hold cells in-vitro, based on their compatible size/scale for microbiological processes and phenomena. The specific research objectives include: (a) development of robust machine vision algorithms to identify and classify cells into categories such as cell type, cell state and cell health, (b) development of photonic-based measurement of cell properties to assist classification, (c) development of single-cell electroporation with closed-loop control delivery of molecules, and (d) development of MEMS devices to capture live cells in-vitro, array them into pre-arranged configurations, and keep them viable for extended periods. This work will enable new types of applications such as: diagnosis of disease by detection of rare abnormal cells from large populations, or tissue engineering applications by arraying of thousands of cells into specific geometric configurations. The research program will train undergraduate, Masters and Ph.D level students in various areas of biomedical engineering. It will produce graduates trained in both the theoretical and practical aspects of biomedical instrumentation and device development, who are in demand by biomedical companies throughout Canada.