Tiny tools, big discoveries – Exploring biological frontiers using microsystems

Prof. Dr. Iordania Constantinou
Institute of Microtechnology, Technische Universität Braunschweig

Abstract:
System miniaturization through microtechnology has reshaped various industries, including biology and medicine. The drive toward miniaturization is primarily motivated by the desire for increased efficiency, reduced material use, and enhanced functionality in smaller packages. These compact systems require less power and space, making them ideal for integration into a variety of environments. In recent years, the field of biology has leveraged these miniature systems extensively. Innovations such as microfluidic devices and lab-on-a-chip technologies allow for rapid diagnostics and real-time monitoring of health conditions at the cellular level. This capability has been crucial in various emerging areas, including personalized medicine and single-cell analysis. Moreover, in biology research, miniaturized devices facilitate the detailed study of tissue, including at the cellular and molecular level, pushing the boundaries of what we understand about life’s building blocks. In this talk, Iordania Constantinou will discuss key technologies that have enabled breakthroughs in biology and how her research is contributing to this emerging field.