Project Proposals

Problem

Omnidirectional magnetic actuation systems are critical for enabling precise, contactless manipulation of magnetic microrobots. In our lab, we have developed OmniMag, a novel magnetic actuation system that uses a permanent magnet end effector capable of freely rotating about its central axis to generate controlled magnetic fields. While the system demonstrates promising capabilities, further improvements are needed in the design and integration of the rotating magnetic unit—particularly at the end-effector—to enhance performance, control accuracy, and mechanical robustness.

Goal

The goal of this project is to improve the hardware design of the magnetic end-effector in the OmniMag system. This includes optimizing its mechanical configuration, enhancing alignment and stability, and integrating it more effectively with the actuation setup. The student will also experimentally characterize the improved system to evaluate its performance gains in terms of magnetic field control, precision, and responsiveness. 

Problem

Progress in our knowledge of mechanobiology and tissue engineering allow the assembly of more and more intricate all biological structures. In particular, MICROBS team members developed a method to generate collagenous tissues of various geometry stabilized by a shell of epithelial cells (Mailand, Adv. Mat., 2021). Other groups developed metre-long bioactive fibers of collagen stabilized with alginate shell (Onoe, Nat. Mat., 2013). In parallel, genetic engineering allowed an ever more refined control on cells behavior, including the control of cellular contractility. Optogenetics in particular allow a very precise spatiotemporal control of the contractility of various cell types (Sakar, Lab Chip., 2012 ; Méry, Nat. Com., 2023). Collectively, these results open new avenues to miniaturized all biological machines

Goal

The objective of this project is to combine these tissue engineering methods to assemble light-activated biological micro machines. To this end, the project will require to modify the existing protocols to generate stable tissues embedding contractile cells in the collagenous ECM. The challenge resides in developing a protocol to obtain a tissue stiff enough to not collapse under the contractility of the embedded cells, yet compliant enough to be deformable by said cells. The ability of these assemblages to contract upon light stimulation will be evaluated under the microscope.

Problem

Understanding how cells generate and respond to mechanical forces in three-dimensional environments is essential for progress in tissue engineering, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. In our lab, we are advancing the development of microfabricated tissue gauges (mTUGs): a high-resolution platforms that combine soft cantilevers and engineered microtissues to measure contractile forces in real time. 

Goal

This project focuses on the fabrication and optimization of multilayer mTUG devices using cleanroom microfabrication processes at CMi. The aim is to fine-tune geometries and mechanical properties to enhance sensitivity, reproducibility, and compatibility with a variety of cell types and extracellular matrix compositions.

You will be involved in the full microfabrication pipeline: photomask design, photolithography, soft lithography replication, and mechanical characterization of the devices. 

Problem

Designing acoustic actuators involves complex interactions between mechanical vibrations, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, and acoustics. A fundamental understanding and integration of these multi-physics phenomena is currently lacking, hindering systematic design optimization.

Goal

In this project, the student will develop a design and manufacturing framework for acoustic actuators with an emphasis on the study of fundamental mechanics principles. Theoretical analysis and computational simulations will be performed on multi-physics phenomena that involve mechanical vibrations, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, and acoustics. 

Problem

The development of acoustically responsive microstructures presents significant challenges due to the intricate coupling between structural mechanics and acoustic excitation at small scales. Achieving reliable and reproducible behavior in such systems requires precise fabrication methods and controlled experimental environments. Despite advances in microfabrication, there is still limited understanding of how fabrication parameters and geometric variations influence the dynamic response of these structures under acoustic actuation.

Goal

In this project, the student will work in the cleanroom to fabricate acoustically responsive structures and test the fabricated structures using our unique acoustic actuation platform. A large design space will be explored, which will allow the student to gain first-hand experience on advanced manufacturing and soft microrobotics. Students who already have access to CMi will be given priority.

Problem

Conventional rigid surgical instruments, despite their precision, are ill-suited for navigating the delicate and structurally complex environment of soft tissues like the brain. Although steerable devices have improved maneuverability, their range of motion within cerebral regions remains limited. Our recently developed ribbon-shaped soft robotic device demonstrates autonomous penetration and navigation capabilities in soft tissue, but its current size and lack of integrated sensing restrict its diagnostic potential and minimally invasive applicability.

Goal

This project aims to miniaturize the ribbon-shaped soft robotic device through cleanroom microfabrication techniques and to integrate embedded sensors for in situ measurement of tissue mechanics. By reducing device dimensions and adding real-time sensing functionality, the student will enhance the device’s ability to traverse complex cerebral architectures and enable mechanical characterization of tissues for the diagnosis of pathologies.

Problem

The integration of microfabrication techniques in medical devices has been transformative, yet the challenge of creating highly sensitive, miniaturized sensors for endovascular applications remains. The development of these sensors is pivotal in advancing the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease. At our lab, we have initiated a project to optimize MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) pressure sensors, focusing on their application in endovascular guidewires. The project aims to refine various aspects of sensor design to enhance sensitivity and reliability.

Goal

As a part of our team, you will work closely with experts in microfabrication and biomedical engineering. Your primary responsibility will be to develop and implement strategies for optimizing sensor components. This will involve extensive work in cleanroom environments (CMi), conducting experiments to tweak and test different sensor configurations, and performing rigorous characterization to assess performance improvements.

Problem

Navigating the complex and delicate vasculature of the brain requires catheters that are both extremely small and highly flexible. However, the current generation of microcatheters lacks the necessary miniaturization and mechanical performance to safely access the smallest cerebral arteries. Developing ultra-thin, reliable microcatheters remains a significant technical challenge, particularly at small scale.

Goal

The goal of this project is to design and fabricate ultra-miniaturized microcatheters capable of navigating microscopic brain vessels. The work will involve cleanroom-based microfabrication, followed by mechanical and functional characterization of the devices. Ultimately, the project aims to validate catheter performance through in vitro testing and, potentially, in clinically relevant settings.

Problem

The evolution of medical diagnostics is heavily reliant on the precision and reliability of testing platforms. In the realm of endovascular sensor development, the creation of an in-vitro fluidic test platform is crucial for simulating coronary artery conditions and evaluating sensor performance. 

Goal

You will engage in the hands-on assembly of the platform, followed by a series of calibration and optimization processes. Your role will be instrumental in establishing a robust test environment, including phantom fabrication,  the development of control systems for flow and pressure, and sensors integration.