BioMEMS & Microfluidics (lecture with integrated exercises)

After participation in this course, the student is able to: 1. understand microscale fluid mechanical concepts for lab-on-a-chip applications 2. compare different models for electrode/electrolyte interfaces and explain their limitations 3. illustrate the physical concepts and applications for on-chip particle and droplet actuation 4. understand the mechanisms of electronic and electrochemical cell-chip interfaces 5. describe various methods of neuronal network patterning

We will cover basic concepts and applications of microfluidics and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for biological applications. The course will bring together different aspects of electrodynamics, surface science, and fluid mechanics that describe the operation principles of micro- or nanofabricated lab-on-a-chip systems in life science applications. We will start by introducing the general physical concepts followed by application examples. In the following, we will introduce cell-based microfluidic systems and functional biohybrids. In this context, we will highlight selected techniques and models for on-chip neuroscience applications.

The module will comprise lectures (2SWS) and exercises (2SWS). The lectures will introduce the students to the concepts of BioMEMS and microfluidics. During the exercise, the students will solve and discuss related problems. This will help the students to achieve a deeper understanding of the topics and learn to apply the taught concepts to practical tasks. In combination, this will help the students to acquire the teaching goals, which are listed above. Presence: 60 hrs Self study: 90 hrs Total workload: 150 hrs

Written exam: 100% (2 hrs) To participate in the written exam, the students have to attend at least 50% of the exercise. In the written exam, the students demonstrate their knowledge of BioMEMS and associated physical phenomena by answering questions with limited supporting material. They will also show their ability to transfer the conveyed concepts by solving BioMEMS- and microfluidics-related problems.