Austrian Microfluidics Initiative
The Austrian Microfluidics Initiative (AMI) was launched by the Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) in 2017 to bring together relevant engineering, analytical and biomedical expertise in Austria and bridge existing “research-to-product gaps” in microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip systems and organ-on-a-chip technology. The Initiative is supported by BioNanoNet and its strategic positioning is implemented by Austrian universities and industrial partners.
Univ. Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Peter Ertl is the spokesperson for the Austrian Microfluidics Initiative.
The Austrian Microfluidics Initiative envisions becoming the partner of choice in all aspects of microfluidic project research and development, thus providing the scientific community and industry with a common platform for
(a) direct technological exchange,
(b) rapid implementation of project ideas, and
(c) continuous support opportunities.
The mission of the Austrian Microfluidics Initiative is to provide technological expertise and know-how ranging from microfluidics design and simulation, and rapid prototyping and assay miniaturization to small and large-scale production of microdevices with the aim of:
(1) promoting scientific collaboration between industry and academia,
(2) supporting technology transfer activities, and
(3) offering education and training.
(2) supporting technology transfer activities, and
(3) offering education and training.
The main objective of the Initiative is to turn research ideas into functional prototypes and the realization of successful commercial products by reducing development cost and timelines. Relevant expertise offered by the Austrian Microfluidics Initiative ranges from simulation, materials science and manufacturing technologies to bioassay optimization, biochemistry, biotechnology and biomedicine, as well as industrial standards and regulatory requirements.
Specific goals:
1. Provide members with a platform for the exchange of ideas, technologies and expertise through short communication channels between different microfluidic research teams, interest groups and experts in microfluidics, sensors and biomedicine, as well as large-scale manufacturers of biochips.
2. Development of microfluidic concepts for the life sciences and biotechnology leading to the reduction of animal testing, precision medicine and quality control of biopharmaceutical products.
3. Build and provide rapid prototyping capabilities, small-series production and small-scale production of biochips, as well as mass production in line with industrial GMP guidelines.
4. Establishment of continuous education and training opportunities within the framework of existing studies and onsite training programs, as well as workshops and conferences.
