Implantable Nanophotonic Device Development for Optogenetics

Brain-inspired computers are a developing technology that use biological foundations to inform computational processes. The study of complex brain circuitry is crucial for creating such technologies. However, progress is limited as neural circuits are difficult to study in vivo. Under the directorship of Joyce Poon, the Nanophotonics, Integration and Neural Technology department of the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics (MPI-MIKR) aims to advance the field of brain-inspired computing by becoming a leader in neural circuitry research. The student will work with Professor Poon at MPI-MIKR to apply biomedical engineering principles to microfluidic cell cultures. The project entails creating novel microfluidic designs that replicate layered brain structures such as the cortex and the hypothalamus. The goal of this work is to develop exciting new cell culture techniques through the use of microfluidics and optogenetics to inform the next generation of computing devices.

Faculty Supervisor:

Aimy Bazylak

Student:

Partner:

Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Nanotechnology; Technology; Biotechnology

University:

University of Toronto

Program: