BioMEMS - Biomedical and Biomedical Microelectromechanical Systems - is a subject that combines applied micro- and nanotechnology with biology.

Nature presents various biological molecules that are able to build structures and perform work (proteins and enzymes), or store and transfer great amounts for data (DNA and RNA), amongst others. By integrating these molecules onto various micro and nanotechnology platforms, we can develop unique biosensors. Proteins with catalytic activity (enzymes) go as an example under the name of nanomachines. The biomolecules can be used in the signal transmission within such biosensors, or they can be used to conduct measurements directly on living systems.

Medicine is one primary application field of BioMEMS platforms. Here they are used in diagnostics, therapy, for transporting drugs or in monitoring of processes in the body. BioMEMS is an interdisciplinary discipline that combines classical natural sciences (physics, biology and chemistry) with electronics, mechanics and biomedical engineering, as well as computer science, materials science, medicine and mathematics.

Enabling technology

The Norwegian government has defined the field of bio/nano as an area for enabling technology. That is, a technology area that can be so pervasive that it will lead to major changes in society. In Norway there is a huge unprecedented potential for biotechnological innovation and business development in both health, food production and process industries. The BioMEMS group is in the center of this exciting and innovative technology area.

Several completely unique technology platforms are being developed by the BioMEMS Group, and some of these are being commercialized through collaboration with companies in Norway.

Projects

Ongoing PhD projects:

  • The interaction of photosensitive proteins with microfabricated sensor arrays.
  • Wireless electrochemical microsystem for continuous monitoring of biological compounds.
  • Glucose energy harvester for self powering of remote distributed bioanalytical microsystems.
  • Acoustic resonator for the investigation of the mass loading effect from immobilised bioactive components.
  • Paper-based colorimetric biosensors array for rapid screening of human urinary biomarkers.
  • 2D materials enhanced optical sensors for biological MEMS.
  • Validation of microsystems for automatic molecular control of fish environment, health and well-being

Networks and Partners

Academic networks:

  • University of Glasgow
  • Xi’an Jiatong University
  • Xiamen University
  • Nanjing University of Science and Technology
  • Chongqing Technology and Business University
  • University of Minho
  • Kenyatta University
  • Freshwater Institute
  • UiO/NTNU/SINTEF
  • NMBU/ CERAD & Dept. Animal and Aquacultural Sciences

Industrial collaboration:

  • CtrlAqua SFI/Nofima
  • Oslo Universitets Sykehus
  • Norsk Hydro ASA
  • Seabed solutions AS
  • Mectro AS
  • LD-Design Electronics AB
  • Martinsen Verktøy og Plast AS
  • Bionor Laboratories AS
  • Patogen Analyse AS
  • Zimmer & Peacock AS
  • Sensovann AS
  • Oslofjord Ressurspark AS
  • Mandalon Technologies AB
  • Suma Care ApS
  • WWINN Group
  • Kjeller Innovasjon AS
  • Bærekraftig Arbeidsmiljø WE Sustain AS
  • Aqua Alarm AS

Group members