Design and Validation of a 3D-printed device for electromechanical stimulation of cardiac cells
This project aims to validate a platform for the growth and maturation of cardiac cells & microtissues using biochemical, electrical and mechanical stimuli. To that end, biomimetic conductive scaffolds which can be electromechanically stimulated, have been synthesized. These scaffolds have been incorporated into 3D-printed inserts that are designed for the cultivation and maturation of cardiomyocytes (CMs).
In an initial part of the project, we have characterized the electromechanical performances of the biomimetic scaffolds. In this second part of the project, the scaffolds will be combined with a 3D printed device and/or bioreactor to enable continuous monitoring of the cardiac function (contractility). This platform will be used to simulate healthy and diseased (cardiomyopathy and arrhythmia) cardiac tissues, as well as healthy tissues in adverse environments (under mechanical stress). This project is in the context of an H2020-funded project “EMAPS-Cardio” consortium which aims to optimize the differentiation of the hiPSC to adult-like CMs to obtain the most realistic heart models. This internship is at the interface of both the material sciences and the biological aspects.
Key Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities will revolve around the validation and refinement of a 3D-printed holder designed for the cultivation of cardiac cells. The ideal candidate will play an integral role in the electrical and mechanical analysis of a biomimetic scaffold. This role will also entail the training and oversight of cell seeding on the scaffold and conducting electromechanical assessments on the cultures readily accessible at our facility.
Selection Criteria
You need knowledge of solid mechanics and basic biology and chemistry. Experience in 3D printing, 3D design and mechanical characterization. Experience in electrochemistry would be a plus.
Fluent English communication skills, both in speaking and writing, are mandatory. The student will participate in monthly video-conference meetings with our European partners.
Work Context
The applicant will be part in the H2020-funded project “EMAPS-Cardio” with a multidisciplinary consortium of academic research institutes (LAAS, CSEM, IMC) and industrial (SME) partners from France, Switzerland, Lithuania, Portugal, Czech Republic, Spain and Germany (OSPIN, BIOFABICS, INOCURE, VERTECH, EURICE, BIOTALENTUM, EURECAT).
The position is at the Laboratory of Analysis and Architecture of Systems (LAAS) in Toulouse, with regular interactions with the other partners. The student will be a member of the MEMS team of the MNBT department of LAAS (https://www.laas.fr/public/en/MEMS).
The activities of LAAS-CNRS are divided into six departments covering computer science, robotics, automation, microwave and photonics, energy management, and micro-nanotechnologies. The laboratory is equipped with first-rate technical and experimental platforms to carry out high-tech, applied research, particularly in the field of microsystems and electronic devices. A biology platform also enables us to develop leading-edge activities in biosensors, microfluidics, electrochemistry, and electrophysiology.
Contacts :
Do not hesitate to contact us for more information: Dr. Christian Bergaud: Bergaud@laas.fr , Dr. Dina Arvanitis: carvanitis@laas.fr