Thesis Project Form
Title (tentative): Design, fabrication, and test of an array of soft ultrasound generators for in vitro applications| Thesis advisor(s): Raiteri Roberto, Giorgio Carlini | E-mail: |
| Address: Via Opera pia 11a 16145 Genova | Phone: (+39) 010 33 52762 |
Description
Motivation and application domain
Ultrasound represent an efficient strategy for the controlled mechanical stimulation of cells and tissues both in vitro and in vivo. It has been proven that such stimulation activate/inhibit intra-cellular pathways, thus modulation cell differentiation, growth, and functions.
General objectives and main activities
The objective of the thesis project is to develop an array of ultrasound (US) generators, made of a soft elastomer (PDMS) doped with piezoelectric nanoparticles, that can be coupled and operated with standard multiwell plate for cell culture.
The development will consist in both fabricating the transducers and the electronics to drive them, as well as in testing and characterizing the generated US in water solution.
The development will consist in both fabricating the transducers and the electronics to drive them, as well as in testing and characterizing the generated US in water solution.
Training Objectives (technical/analytical tools, experimental methodologies)
The thesis will provide experience in:
- laboratory techniques/procedures to fabricate composite materials
- CAD design and 3D printing
- electronic circuit design and testing
- microcontroller programming
- measurement of the generated US field in water
- laboratory techniques/procedures to fabricate composite materials
- CAD design and 3D printing
- electronic circuit design and testing
- microcontroller programming
- measurement of the generated US field in water
Place(s) where the thesis work will be carried out: DIBRIS
Additional information
Pre-requisite abilities/skills: attitude toward experimental work
Maximum number of students: 1