VinUniversity Students Participate In Research On Wearable Biosensors And Electronic Skin Development
Have you ever heard of “Electronic Skin”? This technology mimics the human skin functionalities of sensing the shape of objects, their texture, and temperatures. Thanks to breakthrough inventions in wearable biosensors, such as smart watches and implantable biosensor chips, we can now monitor our fitness parameters, receive warnings on health issues and so on, from anywhere, anytime. Dr. Tran Thi Mai, Assistant Professor in College of Engineering and Computer Science, VinUniversity, and her research assistant, Nguyen Vu Thu Hien are conducting research to develop biosensors that are highly integrated with modern health monitoring devices, so that various health parameters can be directly recorded. The project also sets the foundation for further research on electronic skin technology to enable people with artificial limbs to be able to feel and sense objects and materials as well as those with natural limbs and skin.
Biosensors are devices that detect, measure and analyzes biological responses including enzymes and antibodies. They are commonly used for measuring biological parameters, diagnosis of diseases and assistance in treatments in the field of healthcare, as well as detecting harmful elements for air quality analysis in the field of environmental technology. Thus, biosensors have successfully built bridges between electronic devices and the human body. Dr. Tran Thi Mai is motivated by the goal of making health monitoring accessible to anyone, anywhere and anytime without the hassle for patients and consumers, of travelling and waiting.
Biosensor and electronic skin technology research require in-depth knowledge of material properties such as biocompatibility and high elasticity, as well as the life functions of the human body. “As a first-year student, it is truly a tough challenge for me to join such research that requires intensive knowledge about both biology and material technology. With persistence and encouragement from my advisor, I have been able to make progress on this project. I have learnt a lot, and especially the importance of persistence through tough challenges!” – Nguyen Vu Thu Hien, shared.
A concept image of electronic skin that can sense touch, pain, and heat. Credit: Ella Maru Studio
May the determination of the research team pay off soon with remarkable achievements in biosensor technology, as a contribution to the enhancement of treatment methodologies and health monitoring for the patients. At VinUniveristy, with the intention of creating real impacts and practical values for the society, the faculty and students at College of Engineering and Computer Science has been conducting research on technology applications in resolving healthcare issues in Vietnam and the world. At VinUniversity, students are provided with abundant opportunities to participate in multi-disciplinary research, and to propose and collaborate on research projects on their own. Several students are availing of these opportunities and actively working on projects with their faculty and fellow students.
