About This Project

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

We seek to develop a micro-optical sensor platform for the detection of viral agents. In particular, we will focus on the human papillomavirus (HPV), which has been implicated in both cervical cancer and head & neck cancer. The goal is to expand on the work presently being performed in the lab and provide support for an undergraduate research student. The supported student will develop the whispering gallery mode platform that will enable sensitive detection of HPV. The sensor works by coupling light into a long-lived resonant mode of a micro-optical cavity. The adsorption of material to the surface perturbs the system and shifts the resonant wavelength. The degree to which the resonance shifts in indicative of the amount of material adsorbed on the surface. Ultimately this platform may be developed into a robust, low-cost and portable instrument that may be employed for screening for HPV infections throughout the world, particularly in underdeveloped and developing nations. HPV is the initial target because of the relationship we have developed with the Biology Department, but we intend to broaden the scope to include other cancers as well.

What is the significance of this project?

The long term goal of this research is to develop rapid and lost cost detection of HPV. However, this short term goal of this project will provide an undergraduate student with summer support so they can devote their time to gaining valuable laboratory experience, putting to practice those concepts they have learned in the classroom. This hands on learning in as important, if not more, as traditional classroom learning. In addition, this project will solidify the link between researchers within the Physics and Biology departments fostering future projects that combine techniques and approaches not typically employed by either department's researchers individually. Successful funding of this project will advance the research in the lab while enhancing the education experience for our students, and will ultimately bring us closer to realizing the goals.

What are the goals of the project?

The funds will be used entirely to support undergraduate students performing the research over the summer. For every $5000 raised, I will be able to offer a summer research opportunity to one of our undergraduate students. Any funds not used to support student researchers will be channeled into the lab for materials and supplies. Not a single penny will be used to pay my salary.