MSc thesis project proposal

[2018] Closed-loop multi-channel neuro-stimulator and neurorecording ICs

Electroceuticals are the electronic counterparts of pharmaceuticals and treat patients for muscular, cardiac and neurological disorders by means of electricity. They already exist in the form of cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, retinal implants, vestibular implants, spinal cord implants, etc. However, current devices are stiff, heavy, bulky and stubborn. Future electroceuticals need to be smaller, more power efficient, flexible and adjust their therapy to the therapeutical needs of the patients wearing them.

In this project, we wish to take electroceuticals to the next level, by combining our world-record multi-channel neurostimulator with a multi-channel recording unit, the combination of which will allow for single-supply, energy-efficient, flexible, arbitrary waveform, closed-loop neurostimulation. Addditional design constraints to take into account are integration with an electrode array and the possibility to be powered from an RF or thermal energy harvester.

Assignment

The project aims at the design, implementation and full validation (by means of post-layout simulations and/or measurements) of a chip, to be realized in AMS' 0.18 um HV CMOS technology, based on previous design principles. 3 different sub-designs are foreseen:

  1. an energy-harvester powered neurostimulator IC
  2. an energy-harvester powered neurorecording IC
  3. an RF energy harvester + power management IC

Requirements

Interested students should have at least an 8 for Analog Integrated Circuit Design (ET4252) and have passed/taken Active Implantable Biomedical Microsystems (EE4555) and have a profound understanding of analog integrated circuit design principles, as evidenced from good grades achieved for other courses in the Analog profile of the Microelectronics specialization.

They should be familiar with the Cadence design suite and have affinity with the workings of neurophysiology and the applications of neural stimulation. They should be excellent team players and like to excel in an internationally recognized research team.

The results of the good work conducted should be laid down in a working chip (design), a conference or journal paper and a MSc thesis.

The project will be supervised by 2 PhD students and 1 professor.

Interested students should send a motivation letter, a list of courses and grades achieved and a curriculum vitae to: Prof.dr.ir. Wouter A. Serdijn

Contact

prof.dr.ir. Wouter Serdijn

Bioelectronics Group

Department of Microelectronics

Last modified: 2019-04-14