Miniaturized pH sensing for organ-on-chip applications

Organ-on-chips are devices which incorporate patient- or stem cell-derived tissue that thrive to mimic human physiology as much as possible in an in-vitro system. These devices hold great promises in more efficient drug development, and in reducing, refining and eventually replacing animal tests. Understanding and controlling the environment in which the cells are incubated on the chip are key in proper functioning and differentiation. For that, many (metabolic) parameters need to be measured, preferably close to the tissue itself. In particular, measuring the acidity (pH) of the medium is paramount but poses many challenges to the sensor: it needs to be small enough to fit in the (micro)fluidic system, non-cytotoxic, biocompatible and stable over the usage period, which can be weeks- to even months-long. Imec has identified two potential approaches to measure pH in situ. In this Master thesis project, the candidate will address the quantification of figures of merits for both approaches.

Assignment

In this Master thesis project, the candidate will address the following topics to quantify the key figure of merits for both approaches:  

• Fabrication: Fabricate test structures in the cleanroom;

• Design: Design an electrical readout to record the signals the sensors generate;

• Modelling: develop mathematical/simulations to study the sensors response;

• Characterisation: Quantify the sensitivity and stability, and provide a motivated comparison, highlighting both the benefits and shortcomings;

Requirements

You will be working on state-of-the-art sensor research, that is relevant for actual healthcare applications, but at the same time scientifically challenging. You will be working in an inspiring high-tech environment at imec, located within Holst Centre Eindhoven, and part of the larger imec organization, world-leading in R&D on nanotechnology and electronics. You will receive support from experienced researchers. This project will be in close collaboration with Dr. Massimo Mastrangeli from TU Delft, and use of labs at TU Delft are also envisioned during the project.  

We invite you to be part of our multi-disciplinary team, of researchers, engineers and innovators, and grant you the opportunity to contribute to our ambitious aim to have real impact on actual healthcare needs. 

• You are a Master's student with a background in Electrical engineering, Chemical engineering or Applied physics with a strong interest and knowledge in sensors 

• You are available for a 9-12-month period, which includes time for thesis preparation. 

• You have the legal right to undertake an internship in the Netherlands. 

• You are a self-starter with the ability to work autonomously. 

• You have skills in programming (Python or Matlab) and data analysis. 

• Hands-on experience with (bio)chemical sensors is advantageous. 

Contact

Last modified: 2025-02-24