| KEYWORD |
AA - Materials and Processes for Micro and Nano Technologies
Handheld robotically assisted device for transcutanous drug refilling
Thesis abroad
keywords 3D PRINTING, BIOMATERIALS, PROSTHESIS, ANTIBACTERIAL, CAD DESIGN, MEDICAL IMPLANTABLE DEVICES
Reference persons VALENTINA ALICE CAUDA
External reference persons Prof. Alessandor Grattoni - Nanomedicine deartment at Methodist Hospital Houston website https://grattoni.hmailabs.org.
Research Groups AA - Materials and Processes for Micro and Nano Technologies
Thesis type EXPERIMENTAL THESIS
Description To this day, drug-releasing implantable devices in the market require surgery for removal and replacement. The ability to transcutaneously refill implantable devices prolongs the implant life and treatment duration. Our lab has developed a transcutaneously refillable implant that can be reloaded with a solid particles. We have used a peristaltic pump to achieve a sustained flow and particle accumulation inside the implant. The goal of this projects is to developed a handheld device that could perfom thee drug refilling without the need of cumbersome external pumps. Moreover, in order to miniaturize the refilling device, the drug formulation might require optimization using different exciptient to improve suspension siringiability. The goal is to create a device that could be used anywhere in the world. The lab offers several rapid prototyping tools such as 3D printers, CNC milling machine, lathe, drills etc. The student is expected to design and test different prototypes of the refilling device. Parameters such as drug loading efficiency, feasibility of use, failure rate (clogging) amongst others need to be determined. Read more about the project here: https://grattoni.hmailabs.org/research/#HIV
See also https://grattoni.hmailabs.org/research/#HIV
Required skills This project requires experimental work to be performed at the Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston (TX), US. A period of at least 8 months is required. The project can involve animal studies, the student needs to be comfortable in working with animal models after training. Good CAD (SolidWorks) skills are required; familiarity with 3D printing, drills, CNC machining, lathe machining, are a plus. Excellent English level is required (oral and written) and positive attitude to work in a diverse and heterogeneous environment.
Notes Master thesis abroad in Houston - Texas
Minimum 8 months required
Deadline 08/09/2025
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