Research Interests

The life sciences and biotechnology are currently undergoing the type of explosive growth that was seen in the electronics industry with the development of the integrated circuit. While extensive bodies of research exist in both microelectronics and microfluidics for the life science, efficient and effective methods of integration do not currently exist. To fully realize the potential for advancements in these fields we must utilize not only the microfabrication techniques that lead to such growth, but also incorporate the advanced functionality offered by microelectronic devices. I am interested in addressing the need for such methods with a strong focus on life science applications. This has involved innovative techniques to adapt available tools for investigation of systems containing both electrical and aqueous components. Through my dissertation work I have developed a methodology for integration that allows for usable devices yet is constrained to have minimal environmental impact; something that needs to be addressed as disposable technologies for the life sciences gain widespread acceptance.

To broaden my experience in the life sciences, I elected to do my post-doctoral research in the Department of Immunogenetics at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. My research there was focused on genomic-based typing for bone marrow and solid organ donor matching. I designed and fabricated a microfluidic platform to aid in isolating new genetic combinations and resolving ambiguous typing combinations. I am utilizing my knowledge of microfluidics and gaining expertise in molecular biology to create a platform that allow for more complete sequencing of the of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA), the major histocompatibility complex in humans. This work also helped me develop an understanding of the constraints in designing tools for clinical biology.

Through my research experience, I have developed a strong belief that truly successful system design requires insight that can only be gained through first-hand experience. There are numerous aspects of the microsystem I developed in my thesis work that I would never have conceived of had I not personally performed the cell culture. I endeavor to continue working under this paradigm to design, examine (both analytically and empirically) and test microsystems that meet existing and evolving challenges for hybrid systems at the electro-fluidic interface.