Student project: Numerical simulation and validation of an electrochemical biofluid sensor

The goal of the student project is to develop a simulation model of the physical and chemical phenomena inside a biofluid sensor, and validate this model by impedance spectroscopy measurements on actual sensor devices.

What you will do

Imec is developing micro-fabricated sensors to monitor the concentration levels of relevant compounds in biofluids. Target applications include continuous monitoring of electrolyte levels in dialysate of kidney patients, and long-term monitoring of cell culture fluid within organ-on-chip systems.
To prepare for testing of these sensors in the actual application settings, first evaluations are performed in our lab setting. To understand the physical and chemical phenomena that occur in our sensor devices, and the effect of the design parameters on their sensing performance, we are looking for a student to help us develop a finite element simulation model.

During this project you will:

• Carry out a literature study on physical and chemical phenomena relevant for impedance spectroscopy.
• Build a first principles model in COMSOL for the biofluid sensor.
• Perform numerical simulations, to grow understanding of the physical and chemical phenomena inside the sensor, and map the effect of the design parameters on the predicted sensor performance.
• Obtain experimental impedance spectroscopy measurements from the sensor devices, to allow for comparison between experiments and simulations
  document the results in a written report.

What we do for you

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 the 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.

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.

Who you are

• Excellent Bsc/MSc student in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics or equivalent.
• You are entitled to do an internship in the Netherlands (have EU nationality and/or currently study at Dutch university).
• Preferably experienced with COMSOL software
• Preferably with knowledge on electrochemistry
• Eager to take ownership for your student project
• Have a structured way of working
• Have good command of spoken and written English
• Available for 6 months or longer 

Interested

Does this position sound like an interesting next step in your career at imec? Don’t hesitate to submit your application by clicking on ‘APPLY NOW’.