Research and Development of a Nanostructured Thin Film Diagnostic Platform

The proposed project consists of research and development for a thin film diagnostic platform. The purpose of this project is to better understand the impact of various manufacturing parameters on the resulting device structure and function. Our diagnostic technology operates through the thin film interference of light. Similar to the colours generated by a thin layer of oil on water, we are able to create thin film interference colours using thin nanostructured metals. Further understanding of how to tailor the device will allow for the optical properties of these metals to be adjusted such that small molecules (i.e. proteins and other biomarkers) can be easily visualized after binding to the metal surface via a colour change. The unique aspect of this diagnostic is that the technology easily allows for additional markers to be added to the test, a concept known as multiplexing. The platform has diagnostic potential in various fields such as agriculture, environmental, and clinical testing.

Faculty Supervisor:

Robert Burrell

Student:

Partner:

SN Biomedical

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Alberta

Program: