General information
Organisation
The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) is a key player in research, development and innovation in four main areas :
• defence and security,
• nuclear energy (fission and fusion),
• technological research for industry,
• fundamental research in the physical sciences and life sciences.
Drawing on its widely acknowledged expertise, and thanks to its 16000 technicians, engineers, researchers and staff, the CEA actively participates in collaborative projects with a large number of academic and industrial partners.
The CEA is established in ten centers spread throughout France
Reference
SL-DRT-24-0579
Direction
DRT
Thesis topic details
Category
Technological challenges
Thesis topics
Multilayer encapsulation of cells by a centrifugation device
Contract
Thèse
Job description
Cell encapsulation in bio-polymers is a rapidly expanding field in bioproduction, encompassing organoid or spheroid maturation, drug screening, cellular therapies, and bioengineering. This thesis contributes to these applications through the multilayer encapsulation of cells in bio-polymers with a wide viscosity range. The inner layer (core) provides a more favorable environment for the maturation and survival of cells or organoids, while the outer layer ensures mechanical protection (shell) and acts as a filtering barrier against pathogens. Laden with selected biological agents, it allows controlled interaction with the core cells of the capsule.
The objective of this thesis is to develop an innovative ejection nozzle for forming high-frequency multilayer microcapsules using centrifugal force in a laboratory centrifuge. This new thesis builds upon a completed thesis in 2023 that studied, detailed, and developed a predictive model for generating single-layer microcapsules solely through centrifugal force.
The mechanisms of formation and ejection of multilayer capsules are complex, involving the rheological properties of bio-polymers, centrifugal force, surface tension, and interfaces. The design of the ejection nozzle must consider these properties. The first part of this thesis aims to better understand the multilayer formation and ejection mechanisms of microcapsules based on the selected ejection nozzle's geometry. This understanding will enable the prediction and control of formation based on the rheological properties of the bio-polymer(s). The second part involves developing an automated system for aseptic capsule production. Finally, biological validation will confirm the developed technology.
To achieve the study objectives, the candidate must initially conduct an analytical and numerical study, design ejection nozzles, and leverage the laboratory's expertise to manufacture them. Fluidic tests will be performed on models, and the design will be optimized to create and test a microcapsule formation prototype. The candidate should have a background in physics, engineering, and fluid mechanics, with a particular talent for experimental approaches. Prior experience in microfluidics/biology would be advantageous.
University / doctoral school
Ingénierie - Matériaux - Environnement - Energétique - Procédés - Production (IMEP2)
Université Grenoble Alpes
Thesis topic location
Site
Grenoble
Requester
Position start date
01/10/2024
Person to be contacted by the applicant
BOTTAUSCI Frédéric frederic.bottausci@cea.fr
CEA
DRT/DTBS/SEMIV/LSMB
17, rue des Martyrs
38054 Grenoble Cedex
CEA/Grenoble
04 38 78 05 58
Tutor / Responsible thesis director
GHIGLIOTTI Giovanni giovanni.ghigliotti@univ-grenoble-alpes.fr
Université Grenoble Alpes
MOdélisation et Simulation de la Turbulence
Laboratoire LEGI
1209-1211 rue de la piscine
Domaine Universitaire
38400 Saint Martin d’Hères
France
+33 (0)4 76 82 51 70
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