***Archived: This is a past project, it is not on offer at the moment!***
Contact Persons: Dr. Sandro Carrara, Lecturer, EPFL-IC-ISIM-LSI
Dr. Cristina Boero, Post-doctoral researcher, EPFL-IC-ISIM-LSI
Project Description:
Several metabolites, such as glucose, lactate, etc., can be detected electrochemically. The sensing element of a biosensor is typically an enzyme, which transduces a chemical reaction in an electrical signal. We designed and realized an electronic system on printed circuit board to be interfaced with the biosensor. The actual system is able to induce a chemical reaction on the biosensor and read the output current generated by the biological recognition element. The acquired data are then sent to remote devices, i.e. laptop, smartphone, or tablet, by using Bluetooth protocol.
The student should improve the circuit for low-noise current readout by designing the system for measurements in the nA range. The analog signal coming from the biosensor has to be converted in a digital signal just after the read-out, minimizing the analog processing. The architecture should be optimized for low-noise output signals and suitable for an integrated version.
Project Tasks:
- Design the architecture to filter and digitize the current signal, based on the present developed circuit.
- Realize and test the designed circuit on a PCB.
- Test and validate the electronics with biosensors for the detection of glucose and lactate in a cell culture.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Good knowledge of analog electronics and low-noise circuits.
- Basic knowledge of microcontroller programming.
- Familiarity with PCB design and realization.
***Archived: This is a past project, it is not on offer at the moment!***