Printed Biosensor for the direct quantification of insuline for diabetics

The PhD project concerns the development and validation of a method for measuring insulin in blood at the patient's bedside. This innovative device is designed to enable rapid results from just a few microliters of blood directly deposited onto the device, thereby significantly alleviating the limitations presented by current methodologies. The sensing mechanism will employ a digital ELISA-type scheme that incorporates an electrochemical read-out strategy. The primary tasks of the PhD candidate will involve designing the sensor and implementing it through additive manufacturing techniques, and evaluating its analytical performance first on model samples, followed by tests on animal models (specifically, mice), and ultimately using real samples obtained from diabetic patients.

This thesis is integrated into a comprehensive research program conducted in collaboration between the INEM laboratory (Faculty of Health), which involves defining specifications and qualifying the device according to established standard methods, and the ITODYS laboratories (V. Noel, Faculty of Sciences), which focuses on the printing of sensing components and the integration of the device. The overarching objective of this thesis is to deliver a proof of concept for the insulin-dedicated point-of-care device, thereby laying the groundwork for the potential establishment of a startup.

ITODYS (UMR 7091, V. Noel): The BIOSS team at ITODYS is focused on developing printed sensors and biosensors for applications in medical diagnostics. The participants possess expertise in surface (bio)functionalization, nanochemistry, and organic and printed electronics. 

INEM (UMR-S INSERM U1151, N. Venteclef): The team of Nicolas Venteclef, in collaboration with the diabetes service of Professor GAUTIER, coordinates clinical studies aimed at characterizing diabetic patients based on their ability to secrete insulin as well as its utilization. In the context of the AngioSafe 2 clinical project (NCT02671864), 

APHP (APHP, J.-F. Gautier): Professor Jean-François GAUTIER serves as the head of the diabetes and endocrinology department at Lariboisière Hospital. 

PRINTUP INSTITUTE (https://printupinstitute.fr/), an institute of the University Paris Cité, aims to develop a value chain for “printed electronics for health,” ranging from research to the supply of medical devices intended for healthcare professionals. The technological platform of the institute brings together equipment dedicated to printed electronics for the creation of medical devices. PRINTUP INSTITUTE will take responsibility for developing the control electronics of the sensor and manufacturing pilot series for testing on animals and cohorts.

The ideal candidate should possess a master's degree or an engineering degree in chemistry with a background in additive fabrication methods, surface functionalization of (nano)particles, or analytical chemistry.

The candidate must be inquisitive, motivated, and dynamic, and should demonstrate autonomy in the laboratory. They should also be capable of presenting their research findings during meetings with various consortium partners. Strong organizational skills, a commitment to deliverables, interpersonal skills, and a critical mindset will be particularly valued for ensuring the successful completion of this project.