Maciej Skolimowski – Accelerating discovery: Rapid prototyping for microfluidics in life science research
Dr. Maciej Skolimowski, Micronit B.V., Netherlands
Seminar Room 0.125, MPZPM, Kussmaulallee 2, 91054 Erlangen
Abstract
Microfluidic technologies have the potential to revolutionize life science research, yet the translation from a scientific idea to a robust experimental tool remains a bottleneck in many academic labs. This talk will explore "Rapid Prototyping" methodologies that bridge the gap between a scientist's specific research needs and the creation of reliable, reproducible, and easily adjustable prototypes. We will discuss specific fabrication techniques – ranging from glass etching and laser processing to micromilling, 3D printing, and various replication methods in thermoplastics. These technologies allow for the creation of optically transparent and biocompatible devices within a short timeframe. Special attention will be given to material selection, focusing on how to meet the stringent optical requirements of advanced microscopy while ensuring scalability for biological experiments.
Biography
Dr. Maciej Skolimowski is a Principal Scientist at Micronit B.V. (Netherlands) and serves on the Executive Board of the Microfluidics Innovation Hub (Austria). He holds an MSc in Biotechnology from Warsaw University of Technology and a PhD in Micro- and Nanotechnology from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). His work specializes in bridging the gap between rapid prototyping and industrial-scale manufacturing, with a specific focus on glass and thermoplastic microfluidic devices for life science applications.