Design and test of a system for neuromodulation based on focused ultrasounds

We recently focused our interest on Brain Computer interfaces to cope with motor handicap and propose to patient with spinal cord injury devices for motor substitution , , .
In parallel, several groups at CEA investigated the advantages of ultrasound for medical imagery , diagnosis or developed miniaturized ultrasound sources (CMUT/PMUT).
The post-doctoral position is funded in the framework of a LETI-Carnot project on this innovative thematic. The project aims to (1) build a test bench to validate the compatibility of ultrasound neuromodulation with neural recording devices (2) design optimization for fine resolution and low power (3) specify a system combining neuromodulation by focused ultrasound and electrophysiological recording.

The post-doctoral student, with the help of a team of experts in the fields of ultrasounds and biomedical system, will be in charge of the modelling of acoustic waves propagation, compatibility tests with recording system, system design and experimental validation of resolution or efficiency. The concepts underlying the project could in the future be applicable to new implantable or wearable devices for a combination of focused ultrasound for neuromodulation and neural recording.

Exploring microfluidic solutions for manufacturing targets for fusion power generation

As part of a call for projects on "innovative nuclear reactors", the TARANIS project involves studying the possibility of energy production by a power laser-initiated inertial confinement fusion power plant. The current context, which encourages the development of low-carbon energies, and the fusion experiments carried out by the NIF's American teams, make it very attractive to conduct high-level research aimed at eventually producing an economically attractive energy source based on inertial fusion.
Among the many technical hurdles to be overcome, the production of fusion targets with a suitable reaction scheme compatible with energy production is a major challenge. The CEA has the know-how to produce batches of capsules containing the fusible elements of the reaction. However, the current process is not suitable for mass production of hundreds of thousands of capsules per day at an acceptable cost.
One high-potential avenue lies in the use of microfluidic devices, for which the Microfluidic Systems and Bioengineering Laboratory (LSMB) of the Health Technologies and Innovation Department (DTIS) of CEA's DRT has recognized expertise.