This study considers the use of high-frequency (MHz) vibration transmitted into a source fluid to form atomized particles 10-100 nm in diameter that contain specific forms of biological particles for use in direct cellular vaccination and prolonged drug delivery.

Devices used to generate the acoustic signal and transmit them into the source fluid are to be fabricated in a photolithography lab (www.minifab.com.au), and their vibration characteristics are to be measured using a new laboratory facility to be completed this year at Monash. The effects of the source fluid and acoustic wave properties on the final particle size and distribution is to be determined using a 2D PDPA, zeta analyzer, AFM, and SEM, and the biological component content is to be assessed using Pico/Yoyo fluorescence tagging and subsequent measurement using a fluorometer. Understanding of the acoustic wave transmission and atomization process, particularly with non-Newtonian fluids, via computational analysis is an additional area of interest in this work.

A three-year graduate stipend is now available in support a research student towards the award of a PhD degree. Several competitive funding schemes are also available to cover the cost of international student fees and may also provide research support, including the Australian Postgraduate Awards, the Endeavour International Postgraduate Research Scholarships, and several Monash University Postgraduate Scholarships.

Those interested are invited to contact Dr. James Friend for further information.
Tel.: + 61-3-9905-3551
Email: james.friend@eng.monash.edu.au