Development of 2D and 3D Microneedle Proof-of-Concept Biosensor Platforms for Glucose Sensing
Medical, Biological and other Sciences
PLEASE NOTE
- This internship may be eligible for funding through the Australian Government Women in STEM and Entrepreneurship (WiSE) grant. Female STEM HDR students are encouraged to apply.
ABOUT THE INDUSTRY PARTNER
InnovateMedtech is a global medtech advisory and product development company headquartered in Perth, Australia. The company specializes in the development of cutting-edge medical technologies, providing expert guidance in biomedical engineering, intellectual property strategy, and regulatory compliance. InnovateMedtech collaborates with startups, researchers, and industry partners to accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative medical devices.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Hands-on R&D Experience – Opportunity to design, fabricate, and test wearable biosensors, gaining real-world experience in electrochemical sensing and medical device development.
- Collaboration with Global Experts – Work closely with InnovateMedtech engineers, Palmsens BV (Netherlands), and University of California Irvine researchers on cutting-edge technology.
- Industry Exposure & Career Development – Gain insights into medical device commercialization, regulatory considerations, and quality control, preparing for careers in biotech, medtech, and diagnostics.
- Technology Impact & Innovation – Contribute to a platform with potential applications in diabetes monitoring, drug sensing, and personalized healthcare, supporting future investment and industry adoption.
RESEARCH TO BE CONDUCTED
This project focuses on the development of a wearable microneedle platform for minimally invasive biochemical sensing, with initial validation using glucose detection. The research will involve sensor fabrication, electrochemical testing, and quality control, integrating cutting-edge technologies to create a functional and scalable device.
The intern will undertake the following key research activities:
- Microneedle Sensor Design & Fabrication – Develop and optimize a microneedle-based electrochemical biosensor using screen-printed electrodes and established glucose sensor chemistries.
- Bench-Top Verification & Testing – Design and implement quality control (QC) jigs for bench-top validation, ensuring sensor accuracy and reproducibility.
- Integration with Wearable Potentiostat – Work with Palmsens BV’s wearable electrochemical sensing platform to test sensor performance in real-world conditions.
- Rapid Prototyping & Chemistry Evaluation – Collaborate with University of California Irvine to develop 2D screen-printed electrodes, enabling rapid assessment of different sensor chemistries before final integration into the microneedle platform.
- Data Analysis & Optimization – Conduct iterative testing, refine sensor design based on performance data, and compile a feasibility report for future commercialization.
This project will provide the intern with industry-relevant skills in biomedical engineering, sensor development, and medical device research, while contributing to a next-generation wearable sensing platform with applications in diabetes management, drug monitoring, and personalized healthcare.
SKILLS WISH LIST
The ideal candidate does not need prior experience in all areas but should demonstrate a willingness to learn and apply new techniques in a hands-on research environment. Desirable skills include:
- Biomedical Engineering & Sensor Development – Interest in biosensors, electrochemical sensing, and wearable medical devices.
- Materials Science & Microfabrication – Familiarity with microneedles, screen-printed electrodes, or biosensor materials. Experience with photolithography, thin-film deposition, or soft lithography.
- Electrochemistry & Analytical Techniques – Some exposure to cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, or impedance spectroscopy is beneficial, but training will be provided.
- Wet Lab Chemistry & Sensor Functionalization – Confidence in handling chemicals, preparing reagents, and functionalizing biosensors.
- Prototyping & Quality Control – Interest in device development, sensor validation, and optimization. Hands-on lab work and troubleshooting skills are highly valued.
- Programming & Data Analysis (Nice to Have) – Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or R for data processing and sensor analysis
- Soldering & Assembly (Nice to Have) – Some experience with soldering small electronic components or precision assembly.
- Collaboration & Communication – Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, solve problems, and document research findings clearly.
- Mindset & Learning Approach
- Curious, adaptable, and eager to learn
- Enjoys problem-solving and hands-on research
- Can work independently and in a team
Candidates without all technical skills but confident in their ability to learn are encouraged to apply!
RESEARCH OUTCOMES
The primary objective of this project is to develop marketing collateral that showcases InnovateMedtech’s expertise in microneedle and biosensor technologies, attracting international companies seeking collaboration in medical and biomedical applications. The research will produce technical reports, validation data, and multimedia content, including videos and demonstrations of InnovateMedtech’s capabilities in biosensor development, prototyping, and quality control.
This project is expected to generate inbound industry interest, positioning InnovateMedtech as a global development partner for companies looking to develop microneedle-based medical devices. The visibility created through this work may lead to startup partnerships, industry-funded projects, and long-term research collaborations.
Depending on the early success of the internship, the foundational work produced may serve as the basis for future client-driven projects. If a company engages InnovateMedtech for a biosensor or microneedle development program, the intern may have the opportunity to transition into further work, contributing directly to commercial R&D efforts.
Additionally, the student will gain valuable scientific communication skills, translating complex research findings into industry-relevant content. Through technical writing, video production, and presentations, the intern will learn how to effectively communicate research to both scientific and commercial audiences, preparing them for careers in industry-focused medical technology development.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
The intern will receive $3,300 per month of the internship, usually in the form of scholarship payments.
It is expected that the intern will primarily undertake this research project during regular business hours and maintain contact with their academic mentor throughout the internship either through face-to-face or phone meetings as appropriate.
The intern and their academic mentor will have the opportunity to negotiate the project’s scope, milestones and timeline during the project planning stage.
Please note, applications are reviewed regularly and this internship may be filled prior to the advertised closing date if a suitable applicant is identified. Early submissions are encouraged.
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