Internship | Comparing a newly developed wearable optic device to current optic

Using hybrid printed electronics technique, Holst Centre has developed a wearable optical sensor by integrating silicon photodiodes with multiple light sources and readout electronics into a lightweight and flexible patch. By recording optical signals from the skin using light sources with different wavelengths, our patch simultaneously measures signals from different skin depths. This provides advantages to overcome significant challenges in the field. Our current R&D is focused on photoplethysmography (PPG) by recording optical signals from the illumination of the human tissue. Morphological features from the PPG signal can be translated into cardiovascular parameters of interest such as heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation (SpO2).

Your challenge
Working in an interdisciplinary team of engineers and scientist (electrical engineering, material science, biomedical photonics) you will measure and analyse PPG signals using Holst Centre’s wearable optical sensor patch and existing software platforms. The challenges reside in:

1. Obtaining reliable PPG signals and extracting morphological features from them;
2. Linking them to existing physical conditions of individuals, in particular with an interest in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Project goal

1. Gain a basic understanding of biomedical optics and of propagation of the light in the human tissue;
2. Provide a literature review on commercial, FDA approved and clinical/gold standard research tools detailed within academic papers for comparison of optical devices;
3. Determine methodologies used for assessment/comparison of PPG signals within literature;
4. Acquire PPG signals with Holst Centre’s wearable optical patch and compare devices within specific methodologies;
5. Communicate via presentations and report writing findings.

Your tasks
As a team member your tasks will be:

1. Knowledge acquisition through literature survey, discussion with other team members, and internal seminars/colloquiums;
2. Data acquisition through measurements;
3. Analysis and presentation of experimental data;
4. Documentation of results in a technical report or scientific publication;
5. Presentation of results in internal seminars/colloquiums.

You want to work on the precursor of your career; a work placement gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Naturally, we provide suitable work placement compensation.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Students must reside in the Netherlands before the start and also throughout the internship or graduation project at TNO.