Speaker: Dr. Niloufar Amin, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Title: "Nanomaterials-based (bio)sensing platforms for point-of-care/use biochemical detection"
Abstract: Developing biochemical detection methods that enable timely decision-making and decentralized analysis is essential for advancing healthcare, environmental monitoring, safety and security, particularly in low-resource settings. The real-world implementation of point-of-care biosensors into everyday life requires not only low-cost but also high sensitivity, ease-of-use, reliability, and portability. In this talk, I will present my research focused on point-of-care biosensing technologies grounded in these core pillars. First, I will discuss how incorporating fluorescent nanomaterials, enhances (bio)sensor sensitivity while providing selectivity. Second, I will focus on portability and simple operation by exploring paper-based assays coupled with smartphone readouts. Next, leveraging microfluidics, microfabrication, nanomaterials, and electroanalytical (bio)sensing methods, I will demonstrate how these approaches enable ultra-low-level and fast detection of emerging water contaminants and facilitate earlier disease detection through relevant biomarkers. I will conclude by outlining future directions focused on applying these principles to multiplexed sensing, reliable and robust home-based tests, and next generation point of care biosensing devices in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and biomedical applications.