Imagine knowing if a beach is contaminated before you swim in it or determining if a hamburger contains e-coli before you take the first bite. The concept seems fantastic, but the technology exists to avoid these and other medical disasters, according to renowned Wayne State researcher Gregory Auner. Auner, director of Wayne State University’s Smart Sensor and Integrated Microsystems lab (SSIM), will conduct a series of seminars at Automation Alley in Troy on biomedical research he is spearheading in the area of “Smart Sensors.”

“Sensors the size of a small fingernail hold the key to knowledge that can protect and help people globally,” Auner said. “Our labs create new physical materials that make such innovations possible, while using nanotechnology and other scientific processes to translate information about the composition of a substance in real time.”

Scientists, engineers and surgeons at Wayne State are collaborating to develop integrated micro systems that tackle real-world problems and ultimately influence public health and quality of life.

The October 24 seminar, “Biological and Neurological Implants,” will cover non-invasive breast and pancreatic cancer diagnostic techniques as well as revolutionary approaches to the treatment of auditory and visual impairments through biosensors and microsystems.

On December 11, Auner will present technology that has the potential to help surgeons, astronauts, and armed forces personnel through portable pathogen detection of substances including air, blood and water. Sensor Augmented Vehicle Enhancement Systems (SAVES), for example, benefit soldiers, customs agents and other security personnel by detecting harmful substances and chemical agents in bombs and biological weapons.

On January 16, Auner will expand on: smart-transformers that alert power companies when they need repair or replacement; micro fuel cells that generate power to miniature devices; and, electronics that can withstand high temperatures and other extreme environments demanded by emerging technologies.

Automation Alley is located at 2675 Bellingham in Troy, MI 48083. To register, go to: https://www.automationalley.com/autoalley/aanet/rsvplogin.aspx?eventid=2777.  

Wayne State University is a premier institution of higher education offering more than 350 academic programs through 11 schools and colleges to more than 33,000 students.