Introduction

Microelectrode arrays (MEAs) represent a prominent bioelectronic platform to examine neuronal networks and the transmission of cellular activity in vitro and in vivo. Conventional MEAs can be used in quantitative studies of planar neuronal networks without damaging the cells’ membrane. Despite their many applications, however, two-dimensional (2D) MEAs do not provide sufficient dimensionality to investigate three-dimensional (3D) systems, such as 3D cell clusters. To overcome this, we're currently investigating different techniques on how to overcome the organoid-3D MEA-interface challenge.

Aim & Research Methods

Your project will consist of the following parts:

1. Fabrication of 3D micro-electrode arrays using rapid prototyping and clean room techniques 
2. Electrochemical characterization of the electrodes (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, etc.)
3. Possible detection of signals from cell cluster models

You work in an interdisciplinary and international team and will learn about:

1. Microfabrication techniques (e.g. laser patterning)
2. Printing techniques
3. Electrochemical characterization of MEAs
4. Bioelectronic interfaces
5. Cell culture

Requirements

1. Excellent experimental skills
2. Experience in cell culture, microfabrication techniques desired
3. Background: engineering (biomedical, electrical, mechanical), physics, chemistry or comparable
4. Dedication and motivation to work self-reliantly on a research topic

Possible starting date & further information

The starting date is as soon as possible. The work will be primarily conducted in the Munich Institute of Biomedical Engineering (MIBE) at Garching Forchungszentrum. The scope of this project is meant for a Forschungspraxis or max. 6 month Bachelor/Semester/Master thesis. For further information, please contact Inola Kopic.

References

1. Leroy Grob, Bernhard Wolfrum et al, Printed 3D Electrode Arrays with Micrometer‐Scale Lateral Resolution for Extracellular Recording of Action Potentials, Adv.Mater. Technol.2020, 5, 1900517.
2. Sabine Zips, Bernhard Wolfrum et al, Fully Printed μ-Needle Electrode Array from Conductive Polymer Ink for Bioelectronic Applications, ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces 2019, 11, 36, 32778–32786.

Additional information