Microfluidic Lab-on-a-Chip Systems
Shaping the Future of Miniaturized Systems with Microfluidic Innovations
Skills you will gain:
The “Microfluidic Lab-on-a-Chip Systems” course is designed to introduce the fundamentals and advanced concepts of microfluidics technology within a compact and efficient framework. Throughout this one-month program, participants will explore the principles of microscale fluid dynamics, the engineering of microfabricated devices, and the integration of analytical methods into tiny chip-based systems. The curriculum includes detailed sessions on material selection, device fabrication, system integration, and real-world applications, such as point-of-care medical devices and environmental sensors. In the latter part of the course, students will engage with complex scenarios, applying their knowledge to solve problems in healthcare diagnostics, drug development, and environmental monitoring, preparing them to lead advancements in this transformative field.
Aim: This program aims to provide an in-depth understanding of microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems, focusing on their design, functionality, and applications across various fields. Participants will learn how to innovate and apply these systems to streamline laboratory processes, enhance diagnostic procedures, and develop new technologies for health and environmental monitoring.
Program Objectives:
- Master the design principles of microfluidic systems.
- Fabricate and test microfluidic devices using state-of-the-art techniques.
- Integrate electronic and optical components to enhance device functionality.
- Develop applications of lab-on-a-chip devices in clinical diagnostics and environmental assessments.
- Drive innovation in microfluidic technology through project-based learning.
What you will learn?
Week 1: Fundamentals of Microfluidics
- Introduction to Microfluidic Technology
- Overview of lab-on-a-chip systems
- Principles of fluid dynamics at the microscale
- Surface tension, capillarity, and microfluidic flow properties
- Materials and Fabrication Methods
- Material selection for microfluidic devices (PDMS, glass, polymers)
- Techniques: Photolithography, soft lithography, and 3D printing
- Basic device fabrication using PDMS
- Overview of Microfluidic System Integration
- Introduction to pumps, valves, and mixers in microfluidics
- Introduction to detection methods (optical, electronic, and electrochemical)
Week 2: Design and Development
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for Microfluidics
- Basics of simulation tools (COMSOL Multiphysics, ANSYS Fluent)
- Simulating fluid flow in a microchannel
- Device Prototyping
- Designing microfluidic channels and layouts
- Rapid prototyping techniques for lab-on-a-chip systems
- Introduction to Microfluidic Applications
- Point-of-care diagnostics, lab automation, and drug delivery
Week 3: Real-World Applications
- Clinical and Environmental Applications
- Microfluidics in healthcare (e.g., blood analysis, DNA sequencing)
- Environmental monitoring and detection systems
- Advanced System Integration
- Integrating electronics, sensors, and optical components
- Developing functional microfluidic prototypes
- Troubleshooting and Optimization
- Identifying and resolving common fabrication and design issues
Week 4: Project-Based Learning and Advanced Topics
- Innovation in Microfluidics
- Emerging trends: Organs-on-chips, cell-based diagnostics
- Industry interaction: Guest lectures by experts
- Advanced Troubleshooting and Future Directions
- Addressing limitations and scalability challenges
- Exploring commercialization opportunities
Intended For :
- Undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
- Professionals in the healthcare, environmental, or agricultural sectors.
- Individuals interested in advancing compact, scalable, and innovative technology solutions.
Career Supporting Skills