Microfluidic sample preparation for concentrating bacteria from bodily fluids

To achieve this in a portable system, microfluidic sample preparation is essential, as real-world specimens often contain complex and challenging matrices. Miniaturized sample preparation using solid beads with customized physical and chemical properties enables efficient, selective, and high-throughput processing of these complex samples. Experimental microfluidics further enhances this approach by providing precise control and seamless integration of preparation steps, thereby improving scalability and reproducibility within compact diagnostic platforms.

Project description

Advanced microfluidics plays a critical role in preparing real-world samples by efficiently capturing and concentrating bacteria from complex fluids. This accelerates the detection process, improves accuracy, and enables use at the point of care - whether in clinical settings or at home. A miniaturized microfluidic preconcentration system using magnetic beads typically comprises of integrated channels or chambers where functionalized beads selectively target molecules. External magnets provide precise control over bead trapping and release, allowing dynamic manipulation within the microfluidic environment. Optimizing flow conditions, bead loading, and magnetic field strength is essential to maximize capture efficiency and minimize sample loss. The microfluidic format supports seamless integration and automation of sample preparation steps, while miniaturization enhances scalability, reproducibility, and portability - making it ideally suited for compact, next-generation diagnostic platforms.

Research focus

The master's thesis will focus on developing a test setup for controlled transfer and preconcentration of magnetic beads in microfluidic chips for bacteria preconcentration. This will involve mechanical and electrical assembly of setup components, trouble shooting of setup, as well as the development of preliminary test protocols, data acquisition and data processing routines.

Expected results/learning outcomes

• Functional experimental flow setup with real-time visualization of the experiment using a camera
• Protocols for setup operation with model samples and a selected chip design 

Desired qualifications

The ideal candidate should have a background and interest in mechanical engineering, applied physics, or fluid mechanics, and be highly motivated to engage in hands-on experimental lab work for biomedical applications (using model samples). Curiosity about how things work and enthusiasm for working with hardware are essential. The candidate should possess strong problem-solving skills and be capable of organizing, analyzing, and clearly communicating experimental results.