Microfluidics integrated with Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) is a powerful platform for point-of-care diagnostic applications. Recently, we discovered a physical phenomenon referred to as tunable “nanoshearing,” which allows precise control of nanoscopic fluid flow engendered within nanometers of an electrode surface. This discovery provides a new capability to capture and displace non-specifically bound species physically. This SERS microfluidic platform has already resulted in quantitative measurements of biomolecules in complex biological samples.

In this project, we aim to fabricate state of the art devices fabricated with microelectrodes, which allows for multiplexing capabilities with high specificity and sensitivity — all in one simple device. This novel diagnostic device will be used to test for different molecular biomarkers (i.e., cells, proteins, etc.) in biological & clinical samples.

Students will achieve hands on experience in the design, nanofabrication, and application of microfluidic devices and SERS based systems and their applications in biotechnology.

Link: http://www.nplindia.in/biomedical-metrology

The National Physical Laboratory is the National Metrology Institute of india and a Premier Research Laboratory in the field of Physical Sciences. The National Physical Laboratory was conceptualized in 1943 by the Governing Body of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) , with a view to pave way for using science and technology as a means for industrial growth and development, as well as to give fillip to the fledgling Indian industry. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India, laid the foundation stone for the laboratory on January 4, 1947 and it was one of the first National Laboratory to be set-up under the CSIR. On January 21, 1950, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the then Deputy Prime Minister of India, inaugurated the NPL building. Over the years, the Laboratory has more than realized its primary mandate as the keeper of Measurement Standards for the nation while also substantially expanding its research activities to emerge as a leading national institution for research in a whole gamut of areas in the Physical Sciences.