Project Title: Design and Optimization of an Integrated Optical Coupling Assembly for Photonic Biosensor Deployment
Company: Phlotonics, Inc.
Company Contact: Dr. Daniel J. Steiner, dsteiner@phlotonics.com
Institution Affiliation: University of Rochester
Institution PI: Dr. Benjamin L. Miller, Benjamin_Miller@urmc.rochester.edu
Title: Part-time Student Co-op
Compensation: $16.50/hr, up to 20 hours/week
Duration: 12 weeks
General Description:
Phlotonics, Inc., an early-stage photonic biosensing company based in Rochester, is collaborating with Dr. Benjamin Miller at U of R to develop and optimize an Optical coupling assembly to facilitate use of Phlotonics’ integrated photonic sensors in continuous monitoring applications. This project will leverage the experience of a UR optical engineering undergraduate student, who will develop, assemble and test fixtures for combining optical input/output elements and sample delivery for platform functionality. The optical element is a key module of for Phlotonics’ technology and its integration and deployment into different products is a critical need.
There will be three critical milestones for this project.
- Design part geometry, using CAD, to interface optical element with a bioreactor probe-based consumable. Deliverable: Assembly file and CAD designs
- Produce and assemble Optical fixtures using Phlotonics additive manufacturing and machine shop tooling. Deliverable: Fabricated 3D printed prototype design
- Collect preliminary data using the prototype and complete at least one round of iterative design to ensure part feasibility. Deliverable: Final project report with analyzed data and future directions.
Responsibilities:
- Assist in the design and modeling of optical coupling fixtures
- Support rapid prototyping and benchtop assembly using 3D printing or machined components
- Conduct optical alignment and signal transmission testing using photonic integrated circuits (PICs)
- Participate in team meetings, design reviews, and collaborative problem-solving sessions
- Document procedures, test results, and design improvements
Skills, experience, and requirements:
- Current undergraduate student in Optical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
- Coursework or experience with optics, CAD design, and instrumentation
- Interest in biosensors, microfluidics, or photonics
Strong communication skills and a hands-on, problem-solving mindset
Please send your resume and a brief statement of interest to DSteiner@phlotonics.com with subject line: STAR Internship Application – Optical Coupling Project.
