Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Health monitoring has never been more important for patient care. My research delves into semiconductor devices such as nanoscale organic field effect transistors (OFET) and organic electrochemical transistors (OECT) that can turn a simple bandage into a sophisticated health monitor. These devices combine the robustness of transistors with the versatility of organic semiconductors, offering exceptional electrical performance and precise biomolecular sensing. They can also be fabricated at a low cost using advanced solution processing techniques and can be bent or flexed, making them suitable for almost any surface. It is important to note that this research does not involve Indigenous communities, societies, or individuals, and therefore does not qualify as Indigenous research. Imagine bandages that not only cover wounds, but also detect infections or inflammation. Consider further a system that can monitor electrocardiograms, muscle activity, and even neural activation, identifying early signs of neurodegenerative diseases. Such systems, powered by OFETs and OECTs, provide crucial data to both patients and healthcare professionals, diminishing the need for subjective evaluations. In Canada, where chronic wounds significantly impact both acute care patients and long-term care residents, these innovations prove essential to the field of health monitoring. Perfecting these organic devices requires rigorous research. Developing new nanofabrication processes for organic devices, interpreting complex biosignals, and realizing integrated organic circuits for health monitoring are paramount. Addressing these challenges is the focal point of my research. The objectives encompass innovative designs for OFETs and OECTs, exploration of pioneering organic semiconductors, adoption of advanced nanofabrication techniques, and the use of new AI-driven methodologies to better understand sensor readings. This program is poised to have a disruptive impact on healthcare, promising not only advancements in organic electronics but also a significant leap in patient care for Canadians. By harnessing the capabilities of nanoscale OFETs and OECTs, my research group will pioneer health monitoring innovations, from advanced wound analysis to neural interfacing. Beyond immediate healthcare implications, this research will pave the way for significant societal and economic benefits. Organic electronics represent a sustainable and eco-friendly future in the electronics domain, aligning with Canada's environmental goals. Moreover, I anticipate stimulating job growth and fostering international collaborations. With a firm commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, my dedicated team seeks to reinforce Canada's industrial and academic sectors, positioning Canada at the forefront of the expanding fields of organic electronics and health monitoring.