Microfluidic Platform 1: Multi-Modal Point of Care Diagnostic Platform
Programme Leaders: Prof. Jens Ducree, DCU

Current POC diagnostic platforms are typically restricted to a single test type such as immunoassays, cell-based assays or nucleic acid testing. The type of assay is closely linked to a specific combination of the liquid handling mechanism and the transduction method to achieve the required assay performance. A single instrument integrating multiple transduction schemes, in combination with a range of assay-specific microfluidic chips would be capable of a significantly expanded test repertoire and market reach.
This project will explore the development of a multi-modal POC diagnostic platform integrating a range of sample preparation and transduction schemes.

Core Competencies:
Signal Amplification Science
Biomolecular Recognition
Microfluidic Platforms
Surface Science

Microfluidic Platform 2:  Platforms for Bioprocess Monitoring
Programme Leaders: Prof. Richard O’Kennedy, DCU
Biopharmaceutical manufacturers identify, produce, test, and supply protein-based therapeutics for the treatment of a variety of diseases, including cancer, inflammatory syndromes (rheumatoid arthritis, Crohns’ Disease), and degenerative disease. It is vital that these manufacturers have the ability to continuously monitor their manufacturing processes for parameters such as: yield, therapeutic quality and contamination.

In this project, a highly sensitive diagnostic biochip platform for bioprocessing and other research applications will be developed.

Core Competencies:
Signal Amplification Science
Biomolecular Recognition
Microfluidic Platforms
Surface Science