During simultaneous drug delivery to neonates via infusion pump systems undesired and harmful dosing errors can occur, by a combination of low flow levels and relatively high medicine concentrations. In this project, the application of a multi-parameter chip is investigated for locally determining the composition of the infusion fluid just before it is introduced into the patient. The chip measures the composition by analysis of the physical parameters of the fluid. By comparing these properties with the expected values based on the set point of the pumps, drug administration can be carried out with higher confidence, yielding a better clinical result. Various sensors are integrated on the multiparameter chip, which make it possible to determine a number of physical properties of the gas or liquid, such as density, viscosity and specific heat, in addition to the flow velocity and the pressure. If these properties of the individual liquids are sufficiently different, it is possible to determine the mixing ratio for mixtures on the basis of an analytical model: solving n equations with n unknowns. Within this project it will be investigated whether the mentioned chip technology is indeed suitable for the intended application. To this end, applicants want to address the following research questions:

1. What are the physical properties of the relevant drugs in the typical concentrations for neonatal care? Measurement of this is necessary to determine whether they are indeed sufficiently distinctive.
2. The current chip was originally designed for a pressure drop of 1 bar at a flow rate of 1 ml per hour. The channels on the chip will have to be enlarged to prevent the pressure drop over the chip from becoming too large, so that it can be integrated in the infusion line, without influencing the infusion.
3. It is possible that sensors for other parameters, such as the dielectric constant or the pH, will have to be added to the chip, as a result of the outcome of the first research question.

The post-doc will conduct research at the UT into the possibilities of adapting the current chip - with on-board sensors for measuring flow velocity, pressure, density and viscosity - so that liquid flows with a (low) pressure drop can be measured. It is also possible - if necessary for the application - to add sensors for other parameters, such as, for example, pH or the dielectric constant of the liquid. To this end, a new design will be made and it will be examined whether the manufacturing process needs to be modified. Research will also be done for the electronics required for this. The postdoc will collaborate with researchers from Saxion, who will investigate the physical properties of medicines and mixtures of medicines, and with medical staff from the MST, who will investigate the clinical application of the chip.

We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent background in electrical engineering, applied physics, chemical technology, nano technology or closely related areas. You enjoy communicating your work verbally and in writing. You like working in a team, your curiosity inspires progress and you have clear scientific communication skills. We prefer applicants with strong English language proficiency. A scientific presentation can be part of the interview process.

For more information please contact details prof.dr.ir. J.C. Lotters: j.c.lotters@utwente.nl or dr.ir. R.J. Wiegerink: r.j.wiegerink@utwente.nl

We want you to play a key role in an ambitious project in an inspiring international environment. We strive for diversity and fairness in hiring - we offer you a half year fulltime position. We provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating, modern research environment with world-class research facilities. You will benefit from a professional and personal development program and a green and lively campus, with lots of sports facilities and other activities.
The gross minimum monthly salary will be € 3.111,-. Additionally, employees receive a holiday allowance of 8%, and an end of year bonus of 8.3%.

The University of Twente. We stand for life sciences and technology. High tech and human touch. Education and research that matter. New technology which leads change, innovation and progress in society. The University of Twente is the only campus university of the Netherlands; divided over five faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. We have a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out groundbreaking research.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Because of our diversity values we do particularly support women to apply.

The faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) comprises three disciplines that shape Information and Communication Technology. ICT is more than communication. In almost every product we use mathematics, electronics and computer technology and ICT now contributes to all of societies' activities. The faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. The research which enjoys a high profile both at home and internationally, has been accommodated in the multidisciplinary research institutes MESA+, CTIT and MIRA.