MIRL Research

Georgia Institute of Technology

School of Electrical and Computer Engineering

The Micro Instrumentation Research Laboratory (MIRL) is dedicated to the research and development of micro scale instrumentation systems. The micro systems utilize a variety of micromachining technologies including integrated circuit technologies, bulk micromachining technologies, surface micromachining technologies and a variety of precision engineering technologies (including micro milling, micro drilling, micro EDM, laser ablation, and plastic injection molding). The research laboratory is divided into 4 separate bays for processing and system testing. In addition, a central cleanroom facility (Ga Tech Pettit Microelectronics Research Laboratory) is available for general processing equipment and facilities.

Currently, there are between 10 and 15 students (both graduate and undergraduate) working in the research laboratory. The majority of the research conducted in our laboratory is focused on exploring micro instrumentation for biological applications. The applications range from precision surgical tools to highly parallel biological and chemical analysis systems. Many of hte projects are sponsored by industry, thus providing a practical aspect to many of the projects. In addition to the bio-instrumentation, there is a considerable effort in electromagnetic components for electronic micro systems. Their components typically utilize a combination of micromachining technologies and integrated circuit technologies to realize the end product.

The laboratory environment is eclectic. Students from a variety of engineering and science disciplines work in the laboratory. In addition, many of the student projects require substantial interfacing with other biologically oriented laboratories on-campus. The broad interactions with experts in the areas life sciences and advanced electronics provides a unique opportunity for students to gain technical expertise in several quickly emerging areas of micro instrumentation.

Publications

Current and Past Research Support