Development of fiber optic probes for monitoring critical quality attributes of bioprocesses
Description
A PhD project is offered within the research teams of Professors Younès Messaddeq (Department of Physics, Engineering Physics, and Optics; https://ymlab.ca/) and Alain Garnier (Department of Chemical Engineering) at Université Laval. This project is part of an initiative supported by the Eastern Canada Pandemic Preparedness Hub to accelerate vaccine production in Canada. It focuses on developing innovative strategies for monitoring the quality of cell cultures used in the production of viral vectors and recombinant proteins. The research environment is enriched by collaborations with renowned research centers such as CERVO, as well as by strategic partnerships with governmental and industrial organizations, including the National Research Council of Canada, INO, and Ivano Biosciences.
The main objective of this research project is to develop fiber optic probes for in situ and real-time monitoring of bacterial cultures in bioreactors. These probes will aim to measure critical parameters of biomanufacturing processes, such as biomass, culture medium components, and metabolites, to promote efficient optimization and rigorous production control. Specifically, probes based on Raman spectroscopy will be designed, manufactured, and tested. Performance will be validated on various bioreactor formats and different bioprocesses.
Tasks include:
- Fabrication of fiber optic probes
- Optical spectroscopy (Raman)
- Bioprocess monitoring
- Data acquisition and chemometric analysis
Research Field
- Optical fibers
- Sensors
- Optical spectroscopy
- Raman spectroscopy
- Biomanufacturing
- Process Analytical Technology (PAT)
Research Supervisors
Younès Messaddeq
Alain Garnier
Research Environment
Centre for Optics, Photonics and Lasers (COPL)
The Centre for Optics, Photonics and Lasers of Université Laval (COPL-ULaval) is a recognized interdisciplinary research centre bringing together 22 research teams and more than 150 graduate students. For more than thirty years, our researchers have been advancing knowledge and contributing to innovation in this field. Recognized as a leader in optics and photonics research in Canada, COPL-ULaval also hosts a strategic cluster of which 8 Quebec university institutions, comprising of more than 50 researchers and 450 students are members.
Web Site
Financial Aid Available by Program of Study
Desired Profile
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Physics Engineering
Requirements and Conditions
- Experience in any of the following areas is an asset: sensors, optical characterization (Raman, UV/Vis), optical fibers, programming and multivariable analysis.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English is highly desirable.
- Candidates should possess a strong work ethic.
- We are looking for an organized and proactive individual who can work effectively in an interdisciplinary and multicultural team.
Required Documentation
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitæ
- Student transcript
This project offers a unique opportunity to integrate diverse disciplines such as optics, bioprocesses, and data analysis, while contributing to major innovations in biofabrication. Submit Your Application Now!!
Application Deadline
April 18, 2025
Find Out More
Younès Messaddeq
Professeur titulaire
Centre d'optique, photonique et laser
younes.messaddeq@copl.ulaval.ca