Project Mentor
Dr. Changchun Liu
Department of Biomedical Engineering
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | Smartphone-based detection plays a critical role in disease early detection and health monitoring at the point of care (Song et al., Analytical Chemistry, 2018, 90, 7, 4823-4831; Yin et al., Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical. 2021, 344: 130242). In this summer project, we will develop smartphone app to detect DNA biomarkers in microfluidic chip. We will also build an electrical circuit to control microfluidic chip. Please find more detail on our current research through the website: https://smds.engr.uconn.edu/. |
| Project Direction | This summer research will focus on developing a portable, smartphone-based detection platform for microfluidic diagnostics. On the one hand, we will develop smartphone app to detect the signal of microfluidic chip. One the other hand, we will design and develop an electrical circuit to control microfluidic chip. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The summer students will first work with me and our lab members (e.g., PhD students) to learn how the microfluidic device to work. Then, they will be encouraged to independently design and develop their smartphone app and electrical circuit. Next, my lab members will assist them to test their developed app and electrical circuit. The summer students will be invited to join our weekly lab meeting to discuss their experimental progress. Students are expected to analyze the experimental data and present their findings. |
| Student Qualifications | Previous experience in microfluidics technology is not required, but the demonstrated experience in one of the following fields (e.g., smartphone app development, electrical circuit design, microprocessor, mechanical design (e.g., Solidworks), 3D printing) is desired. |
| Summer Schedule Options | M-F, 9:30am-5:30pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2024, Spring 2025 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 6 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | No |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP24-19. The application deadline is Monday, January 29, 2024.
This application requires a Resume or CV, Cover Letter, and Statement of Qualifications.