Optofluidics-based sensing platforms

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Optofluidics has recently emerged from the unification of optics and microfluidics, profiting from advances in both fields. Optofluidic-based sensing platforms, particularly, offer important benefits in terms of sensing response and analyte utilization, and are highly suitable for label-free biosensing. However, some biosensing applications with the highest socioeconomic relevance in Canada, such as the early detection of cancers and on-site health monitoring, still remain a challenge. **Our research group is pursuing the development of new label-free optofluidic sensors for bioanalytical applications based on the integration of micro- and nanostructured optical structures into microfluidic chips. The optical elements will produce the signal required for analyte detection (e.g. infectious, cardiovascular and cancer-related biomarkers), while the microfluidics will provide means for handling and processing the sample (e.g. bodily fluids) within the platform efficiently. The development of these technologies will be achieved using a combined approach utilizing theory, computational modeling and experimentation. The research proposed here targets objectives to accomplish in the short term, but the discoveries and research associated with these developments will set the foundation for the long-term objective of the research program.**In this direction, the proposed program focuses on three specific objectives: *(1) The development of fully integrated, low-cost optofluidic platforms for on-site sensing applications involving a smartphone-operated nanohole array optofluidic sensor with better surface chemistries. This objective will promote current telehealth programs available in many Canadian provinces. *(2) The development of an optofluidic-based method for the simultaneous enrichment and sensing of analyte, based on the exploitation of non-conventional properties of nanohole arrays. The comprehensive development of this technique will facilitate a nanohole array based sensing approach with unprecedented limits of detection, suitable for applications requiring sensing of ultralow concentrations of analyte, such as early cancer detection. *(3) The development of biocompatible optofluidic sensing platforms based on spider silk, and other natural materials, as biophotonic elements for label-free sensing. This objective represents a timely opportunity for the technological development of biocompatible optofluidic sensors and for further fundamental research in photonics and biomaterials science.**The highly qualified personnel (HQP) trained under this research program is expected to develop multidisciplinary skills in fields as diverse as engineering, biochemistry and photonics, and to gain valuable hands-on experience in cutting-edge techniques. The trained HQP from my group will possess skills in CAD modeling, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), microfabrication, experimental techniques, and data acquisiton and analysis, among others. Additionally, the HQP will enjoy of plenty communication and interpersonal exercise by the end of their programs. This combination of skills will facilitate our trained HQP to pursue a career in academy or in the industrial R&D sector.