This unit will focus on the development of microfluidics lab-on-a-chip devices for biological applications. These are defined as constrained microenvironment where fluids can be manipulated while precisely controlling a series of physical conditions (e.g., temperature, pH, oxygenation, etc.). The unit will initially introduce the basic concept of flow dynamics in laminar conditions, colloidal and interface science necessary to understand the advantages and limitations of a microfluidic approach. Microfluidic fabrications and choice of materials will be discussed in relation to the biocompatibility and sterilisation requirements for the final applications. Finally, a variety of biomedical applications will be discussed. Considering the dynamic nature of this research field and the constant advancement, most examples will be taken from recent publications in order to provide the students with a knowledge of the state-of-the-art. Notable applications of microfluidics to the fundamental advancement of biology (e.g., effect of environmental conditions of cell growth), tissue engineering functions (e.g., the development of organs-on-a-chip, etc.), drug delivery (e.g., high throughput encapsulation of drugs in droplets or microgels, etc.) and healthcare (e.g., cancer models, diseases-on-a-chip, etc.) will be independently discussed.
Unit details and rules
| Academic unit | Biomedical Engineering |
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| Credit points | 6 |
| Prerequisites
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None |
| Corequisites
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None |
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Prohibitions
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None |
| Assumed knowledge
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Basic fluid dynamics (e.g. AMME2261 or AMME2200), a familiarity with biological concepts (e.g. BMET1961) |
| Available to study abroad and exchange students | Yes |
Teaching staff
| Coordinator | Daniele Vigolo, daniele.vigolo@sydney.edu.au |
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