Dr. Leroy Grob

Entwicklung von Medizinprodukten der Klasse II: - Elektrische Thorax-Bioimpedanz-Monitore - Externer Herzschrittmacher

Silver nanoparticles can be found in a number of consumer products due to their good antimicrobial properties. However, once they are in use, their fate becomes unclear which through a number of events can influence the environment, sprouting cytotoxic effects within ecosystems. To better trace these nanoparticles on-site and in real-time, a portable device is being developed using electrochemical techniques to quantify potentially contaminated water samples.

During my one-year company internship, I was able to participate in a variety of projects dealing with the development and design of medical devices (class IIb) and consumer products. It was possible for me to expand my knowledge in designing, prototyping, and testing new types of printed circuit boards (PCBs). I also got to know different departments dealing with software development and mechanical design, which gave me an insight into the different steps of developing a novel product.

The aim of the project was to develop a printed sensor for use in 3D cell cultures to collect physiological data for future drug development. These sensors were fabricated using additive techniques such as inkjet printing, and were electrochemically and optically characterised. In addition, silver nanoparticles were detected, and extracellular current measurements were performed with these microfabricated 3D microelectrode arrays.