The doctoral research fellow will be part of a team of scientists and engineers from Buskerud and Vestfold University College in collaboration with Norwegian municipalities, Vestfold Hospital (www.siv.no/Sider/side.aspx) and Techni AS (www.techni.no), etc., sponsored by Oslofjordfondet. The main task is to develop new-generation portable biosensors exploiting Touchscreen technology for detection of urinary tract infection (UTI). Test for UTI is currently performed either by inaccurate paper test strips, or in laboratory, which is labour-intensive and time-consuming. The realization of rapid, accurate and easy-to-use testing devices would be a great step for the improvement of health care for elderly. But there are many challenges in turning these devices into practical application, with the demand for full integration of components and biological/medical validation.

Description

Project work The doctoral research fellow will be involved in this exciting and fast-paced project aimed to realize a sensor prototype for detecting UTI on patients’ diaper. The doctoral research fellow will focus mainly on the following three themes: (i) design and simulation of the Touchscreen-based capacitive sensor with the integrated read-out circuit; (ii) 3D fabrication process and component assembly; (iii) Biological tests. The work will include a detailed study of capacitive Touchscreen panels for biosensing and model characterization by three-dimensional electrostatics- and biochemistry-oriented simulation tools. The prototype will be realized by exploiting the fabrication and characterization technology made available through the Norwegian Norfab consortium (www.norfab.no). The PhD project will also aim to validate the fabricated prototype. The doctoral research fellow will be an integrated member of the project team and collaborate with the hospital and municipalities on the prototype validation process. Qualifications A Master degree in Bioelectronics, Medical Instrumentation, Micro and Nano Systems Technology, Telecommunication Engineering, or equivalent degree in a related field. The Master degree must be of a level that will qualify for the PhD programme at our institution (i.e. Master grade average must be B or better, and Master thesis grade A or B). Personal skills Independent researcher with strong competences in laboratory work and good communication skills. Attention to detail, ability to work in a multidisciplinary research environment and analytical capabilities are also sought for. Prior experience with some of the above mentioned modelling, fabrication and testing tools will be an advantage. Particularly, candidates with knowledge on combined biological testing and electronic sensor read-out systems will be beneficial. For further information please contact: Associate professor, Tao Dong PhD, phone number: (+47) 3303 7731, e-mail: Tao.Dong@hbv.no Professor Department leader, Nils Høivik PhD, phone number: (+47) 3303 7746, e-mail: Nils.Hoivik@hbv.no General information The fellowship provides research training leading to the successful completion of a PhD degree. The fellowship requires admission to the academic research programme in Applied Micro and Nano Engineering at Buskerud and Vestfold University College. An approved plan for the academic program must be submitted no later than two months after the starting date. The admission to the program must be approved within three months. The position is available for a period of 3 – three – years. Buskerud and Vestfold University College has an agreement for all PhD candidates, aiming to secure rights to research results. The candidates will be offered a one semester stay at a collaborating university abroad, if possible and applicable with

Additional Job Details

Fully advertised at www.hbv.no/stilling