Microvalve-Based Platforms for Precision Biomechanical Stimulation of Living Systems

Microfluidic valves are essential components in modern organ-on-chip systems, where they primarily serve as tools for fluid routing and flow control. However, recent advances in microsystems engineering create the opportunity to rethink their role and transform them into active interfaces capable of directly interacting with living tissues. This PhD project aims to develop a new class of microvalve-enabled biointerfaces that provide precise spatiotemporal control over biomechanical stimulation within microphysiological systems. Rather than functioning solely as passive fluidic actuators, these valves will be engineered to generate controlled mechanical cues that modulate cellular behavior and tissue function. 

The research will investigate novel valve architectures, actuation strategies, and integration concepts compatible with advanced organ-on-chip platforms. Key challenges include achieving localized stimulation, programmable actuation patterns, long-term operational stability, and compatibility with biologically relevant culture environments. Computational modeling and experimental validation will be combined to understand how valve-induced forces are transmitted to cells and tissues. A primary demonstration application will focus on human sensory neuron models, where controlled biomechanical stimulation will be used to investigate mechanotransduction processes and neuronal responses. By integrating stimulation capabilities with electrophysiological and biosensing technologies available within imec, the project will establish platforms capable of both perturbing and monitoring biological systems in real time. 

The developed technology framework could be applied to numerous applications requiring controlled biomechanical inputs, including vascular systems, fibrosis models, barrier tissues, and disease modeling. The project therefore represents a unique convergence of microfluidics, MEMS engineering, sensing, and biology. The outcomes will establish a new technological building block for next-generation organ-on-chip systems, enabling active interaction with living tissues and opening new opportunities for mechanobiology research, therapeutic development, and intelligent bioelectronic platforms.