3D focused on-chip cell sorting for rare cell recovery - Experimental investigation and technology d

Description:

Imec is a global leader insemiconductor innovation and microfabrication technologies. Within aninterdisciplinary team, we explore how microchips can transform biomedicalresearch and diagnostics. This internship centers on the development andevaluation of on-chip cell sorters aimed at isolating rare cells directly from bloodsamples. These cells are often extremely scarce, requiring technologies thatcombine exceptional recovery rates with gentle handling to preserve biologicalintegrity. In this chip generation, three-dimensional hydrodynamic focusing isintegrated, which allows more precise sample alignment and improved sorting efficiency.As part of the project, the candidate will investigate the technicalperformance and reliability of the device, examine aspects such as fluidicstability and device lifetime, while also assessing target sample purity andrecovery yield.

This internship also offers a purelyhands-on opportunity to work at the interface of microfluidics, optics, andbiomedicine, providing a comprehensive understanding of how advanced thesorting platform can be engineered for diagnostic applications.

Objectives/Main Tasks:

• Design andconduct a series of tests to evaluate the performance of the cell-sorting chip
• Investigate device robustness, including heaterendurance during extended operation.
• Analyze the stability and effect of 3D hydrodynamicfocusing
• Collaborate with engineers and biologists tocorrelate technological parameters with biological outcomes such as post-sortcell viability.
• Document findings and support resultdissemination through internal reports

Candidate profile:

• Background inphysics, electrical/biomedical engineering, micro/nano-technology, or a relatedfield.
• Hands-onexperience or strong interests in system engineering, microfluidics, optics, andbiological instruments.
• Analyticalmindset with good data interpretation and reporting skills; ability to workindependently is highly valued.
• Strong motivationto contribute within an interdisciplinary research environment.

Learning outcomes:

• Gain hands-onexperience with advanced microfluidic and optical systems.
• Developexperimental, analytical, and problem-solving skills through device testing,data interpretation, and performance optimization.
• Opportunity towork in a multidisciplinary research environment, bridging engineering,biology, and applied physics.
• Learn howtechnological advances in microchips can translate into real-world biomedicaldiagnostics solutions.

Type of internship: Master internship

Duration: 6 to 8 months (Preferably 8 months)

Required educational background: Bioscience Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics

Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Radin Tahvildari ([email protected]) and Sarah Libbrecht ([email protected])

The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-049. Mention this reference code in your application.

Imec allowance will be provided.

Applications should include the following information:

• resume
• motivation
• current study

Incomplete applications will not be considered.