Biosensors: Principles and Practice

27 Mar 2012, at 13.30-17.00 in Edinburgh, Scotland

Who Should Attend? 
The course is suitable for scientists, technicians and engineers who would like to learn (more) about biosensors and their applications. Researchers who are interested in working with biosensors will acquire a comprehensive overview of the field. The course will also provide an opportunity for researchers who already have experience with biosensors but who would like to update or broaden their knowledge on the most recent developments in the area.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the scientific principles underlying the most commonly used transducers.
2. Gain an understanding of the types of biological components used in biosensors, together with an appreciation of their advantages and limitations.
3. Understand the behaviour of fluids at surfaces and the importance of surface chemistry to biosensor functionality and response characteristics.
4. Learn how biosensors can be fabricated, assembled and operated.
5. Gain a broad overview of the applications of biosensors.

Topics and Course Organisation

1. Introduction and Definition of Biosensors
2. Principles of Biosensors
   Transducers: Electrochemical, Optical, Piezoelectric, Others
   Biological Components: Enzymes, Antibodies, Nucleic Acids, Others
   Component Integration: Immobilisation, Membranes, Surfaces and microfluidics
3. Fabrication Techniques
   Silicon Processing, Screen-printing, Evaporation, Liquid Deposition, Lamination, Others
4. Applications of Biosensors
   Medical, Pharmaceutical, Environmental, Defence, Food