Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The prevalence of chronic diseases among humans necessitates consistent monitoring solutions. A major challenge lies in developing devices that merge precision with accessibility. Noteworthy advancements in biomedical technology, such as microneedles-enabled smart wearables, provide evidence of the potential of minimally invasive or non-invasive health tracking. Yet, existing technologies remain constrained by complexities in selectivity, electronics integration, power requirements, and reliance on costly measurement equipment. Popular existing sensor readout techniques have limitations: Electrochemical sensing requires complex electronics and batteries, in addition to frequent calibration. Optochemical sensing depends on external optical detectors, and performance varies with skin tone and pigmentation. Electromagnetic (EM)-based sensors typically lack portability and specificity. In this research program, the conventional architecture of sensor systems is challenged. Such systems traditionally comprise a sensor, an interface to interpret sensor data, and a processing unit for display or remote data relay. At the heart of the proposed transformative approach is the use of functionalized nanomaterials. Upon detecting specific biomarkers, these materials instigate changes in the EM resonances of novel engineered structures, thereby forming a primary sensor mechanism that can be integrated in a wearable patch. To retrieve the data from the sensor mechanism, a novel radio system is envisioned. This system could be integrated into secondary devices like smartwatches and smartphones. These radio devices will be adept at discerning resonance alterations in the customized patch and will subsequently map shifts in resonance frequency to the specific biomarkers detected. By marrying EM-enabled biosensors with a contactless radio readout scheme alongside incorporating various quantum mechanisms, the technology aims to offer unmatched specificity and accuracy in biomarker detection. The proposed two-system architecture, comprising EM-enabled sensors on one side and sensor data readout through radios on a separate device, simplifies future sensor technology, empowering a single device to concurrently monitor an array of passive (battery-free and semiconductor-free) sensors. This promises substantial cost and environmental waste reductions. Through employing advanced technology for healthcare innovation, this research program lays the groundwork for a paradigm shift towards patient-centric care and comprehensive health equity within the Canadian landscape and beyond. In parallel, the potential alternate applications of the proposed concepts are significant, encompassing areas such as smart manufacturing, agriculture, and defence. By participating in this research, trainees will gain profound translational insights and hands-on experiences in various interrelated domains, positioning them at the forefront of future academic and technological leadership.