Graduate student positions are available at the Waterloo Microfluidics Laboratory to develop a free-flow electrophoresis apparatus for protein purification. The primary goal of this project is to design a system that can separate and collect large quantities of proteins that are difficult to isolate using traditional methods. The secondary goal of this project is to explore new biochemical assays that would benefit from the continuous nature of the separation apparatus.
The candidate is expected to become an expert in:
• Understanding purification methods commonly used in the biopharmaceutical industry.
• Developing protocols for handling and characterizing protein samples.
• The mechanical assembly of systems inspired by microfluidic devices and fuel cell stacks.
• The integration of pumps, fluidic networks, cooling systems, and detectors.
• Using numerical simulations to study the fundamentals of fluid dynamics, chemical species transport, electrokinetic phenomena, and heat transfer at the micro-scale.
Ideally, the candidate will have a background in one or more of the above topics, as well as a passion to learn and acquire new knowledge.
Statement of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
We are strongly committed to building an inclusive and diverse community with a shared purpose and employment equity. We encourage applications from women, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, members of visible minorities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. The diversity of our workplace is at the core of our creativity and innovation and strengthens our research. We seek candidates who share our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.