Microfluidics based generation of biomaterials for 3D tumor modelling

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in India and accounts for 14% of all cancers in women with high prevalence and mortality rate. However, one of the major hindrances in drug discovery as well as drug screening is unavailability of suitable model system to mimic true tumor microenvironment (TME). In this project, the student will design and fabricate microfluidics based devices to generate 3D particles and core-shell microcapsules to mimic TME. The focus will be on controlling the shape, size, and stiffness through suitable manipulation of the fluids, their flow rates, and device geometry. The generated entities will be used to carry out investigations into the growth of tumor cells when co-cultured with other cells.

Significant part of the project will involve designing and working with microfluidic devices and understanding the fluid mechanics behind the generation of these 3D biomaterials. The student is expected to have good experimental skills with keen interest in the engineering and design aspects of the project. Prior experience with microfluidics is a plus, while not essential.