Peripheral nerves stimulation – exploration of experimental methodologies

Student project at imec (Thesis)

This project aims to develop experimental methodology for spatially selective stimulation of peripheral nerves and local measurement of the stimulation effect within the nerves.

 

What will you be doing?

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of the nerves outside of the central nervous system (CNS) and connects the CNS to the organs, limbs, and skin. It is a two directional pathway between CNS and internal organs and hance can have powerful impact on the functionality of both. Currently, interest in peripheral nerve stimulation is growing as an alternative or a complement to pharmacological treatment, i.e., treatment with medication, for applications such as epilepsy, pain, depression, and inflammatory bowel disease.

 

One of the major challenges is specific spatial stimulation of only required population of neurons within the nerve that is needed for modulating the activity of specific organs. Avoiding unspecific stimulation can also result in minimizing unwanted site effects.

This project aims to develop experimental methodology for spatially selective stimulation of peripheral nerves and local measurement of the stimulation effect within the nerves. To achieve this goal the student will develop a benchtop system using imec's and/or off-the-shelf devices and components and perform bench side stimulation experiments.

 

Student tasks:
  • Literature review.

  • Develop a benchtop system.

  • Design and perform experimental evaluation.

  • Report and documentation, depending on results write a paper.

What we do for you

You will be working on cutting-edge research on a topic that is relevant to both academic and industrial research groups. To help you in this journey, we offer a flexible environment where you can be the leader of your own research while at the same time have support of experts to complete your tasks.

 

IMEC has in-house experts in electronics design and neuromonitoring who can help you in shaping this multi-disciplinary research project.

 

Who you are
  • You are a Msc student in (Neuro)Physiology, (Neuro)Biology or Physics.

  • You are available for a period of 9 months.

  • You have knowledge of lab equipment and measurements through course and/or project work.

  • You are excited about neurology.

  • You are entitled to do an internship in the Netherlands.

  • You are self-starter and able to work independently.

  • Good written and verbal English skills.

Interested

Click on 'apply' to submit your application. You will then be redirected to e-recruiting.