Cell Dynamics and PhotoMedicine Laboratory
Research Field
Tzu-Sen Yang, PhD, is an Associate Professor and Director at the Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan. His pioneering lab integrates photobiomodulation (PBM) techniques into regenerative medicine, cellular therapy, and optical diagnostics. His research interests include nanostructured biomaterials to modulate cellular environments, with applications in cartilage regeneration, cancer treatment, and tissue engineering. Recently, Professor Yang has employed PBM to enhance extracellular vesicle release from adipose stem cells, supporting new strategies in cell therapy and cartilage repair.
Professor Yang has pioneered advancements in laser bioprinting technology, notably developing a Laser-Induced Forward Transfer (LIFT) system that uses 830 nm wavelengths for precise cell deposition. His research also focuses on optimizing micro-arc oxidation in titanium dental implants to enhance blood compatibility and bone integration. Additionally, he has created a seven-in-one microscopy platform for single-cell diagnostics, integrating Raman spectroscopy and laser manipulation, which is now used for studying antimicrobial effects, exosome characterization, and diagnostics for endometriosis.
With numerous influential publications, Professor Yang’s innovations in biomedical optoelectronics have propelled advances in optomechatronics and regenerative medicine. Supported by funding from the University System of Taipei and Taiwan’s Ministry of Science and Technology, his research contributes substantially to photonic medical technology and cellular diagnostics. Future research aims to integrate digital imaging, organ-on-a-chip platforms, and silicon photonics to expand biomedical applications further.
The lab, led by Dr. Tzu-Sen Yang, specializes in Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Biophotonic Detection, with a strong focus on cutting-edge technologies for biomedical research and healthcare applications. Key areas of expertise include developing platforms for single-cell manipulation and detection, studying the cellular-level effects of photobiomodulation, and advancing laser-assisted cell bioprinting techniques. The lab also investigates the biophotonic effects on adipose-derived stem cells, aiming to enhance applications in cell therapy and wound care. Efforts are directed toward innovations for quicker cancer diagnosis and the creation of advanced imaging tools like the Fourier-based microscope. Equipped with sophisticated systems such as Raman spectrometry and optical tweezers, the lab integrates interdisciplinary approaches to address fundamental and applied challenges in biophotonics and regenerative medicine.
Optical Bio-Control Systems and Hydrogels for Soft Tissue Repair
Exploration and evaluation of tunable optical force components and bio-control systems in collaboration with hydrogels for soft tissue repair.
Low-Power Optical Therapy and Spatial Light Modulation
Development of low-power optical source equipment and precise optical therapy systems to suppress nerve conduction and enhance cell growth using spatial light modulation.
Thermal and Drug Response in Cancer Cells with Near-Infrared Light Therapy
Investigation of thermal response and drug sensitivity in cancer cells using optical labeling for tumor markers and near-infrared light therapy.
AI-Based Optical Sensing and Adipose Stem Cell Growth
Study of biomedical photonic effects and artificial intelligence-based optical sensing for regulating adipose stem cell growth under targeted near-infrared light.
High-Throughput Cardiac Chips for Drug Screening
Development of high-throughput cardiac chips for drug screening in tumor-induced cardiac arrhythmia.
Microbial and Algal Analysis in Agricultural Waste
Analysis of microbial and algal strains in pig farm sludge.
Biomedical Photonics for Wound Repair
Biomedical photonic effects and sensing for adipose stem cells in the treatment of damaged and malignant wounds, including in vitro and in vivo studies.
Nano-Array Structured Materials for Artificial Microenvironments
Design and development of nano-array structured materials to create artificial microenvironments for modulating cellular behavior.
Intelligent Optical Blood Coagulation Detection Systems
Development of intelligent optical blood coagulation detection systems integrating whole blood analysis, smart mechanical carriers, and micro-scale optical systems, along with advanced chip panelization technologies.
- 2024 TAIWAN ORAL MEDICINE ASSOCIATION - Poster (First Place)
- 2023 Taiwan Medical Laser and Optoelectronics Association Spring Symposium - Best Paper Awards
- 2022 Global Biomedical Engineering Annual Conference, Taiwan Biomedical Engineering Technology Symposium, and SPIE International Optical Engineering Biomedical Imaging and Sensing Conference - Best Student Awards (Le-Thanh-Hang Nguyen)
- 2021 The 3rd International Symposium on Engineering and Technology - First Prize of Oral Presentation
- 2014 College student Research Award (NSC)
- 2012 Biomedical Engineering Creativity Competition- Best Advisor Award
- 2012 Biomedical Engineering Creativity Competition- Goldfinger Excellence Award
- 2003 – 2007 Post-doctoral Research - Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University
- 2003 PhD. Mechanical Engineering, National Central University
- 1997 M.S. Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University
- 1995 B.S. Department of Aerospace Engineering, Tamkang University
Job Description
We are looking for motivated and talented individuals to join our research team to contribute to the development of magnetic bead sensing technology for the precise screening and isolation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) with specific exosomal CD markers (e.g., CD63, CD9, CD81). This internship or research opportunity offers hands-on experience in advanced biomedical research, focusing on innovative techniques for extracellular vesicle isolation and analysis.
As part of the team, you will work on optimizing and applying a novel microfluidic-based magnetic bead sensing platform. This technology integrates antibody specificity with magnetic capture techniques to efficiently isolate and purify extracellular vesicles with targeted exosomal markers. Responsibilities include:
• System Development and Optimization: Assist in the design and operation of a microfluidic-based magnetic bead sensing system to collect and isolate EVs. Contribute to enhancing the binding efficiency between EVs and magnetic beads using optimized flow channel designs and antibody-coated surfaces.
• Experimental Implementation: Perform experiments to isolate EVs using magnetic beads coated with antibodies against specific exosomal markers (CD63, CD9, CD81). Analyze the efficiency of binding, separation, and recovery rates under controlled conditions.
• EV Characterization: Assist in characterizing isolated EVs using imaging and biochemical methods. Evaluate their biochemical composition and purity for downstream applications.
• Protocol Development: Help refine the step-by-step protocol for magnetic bead isolation, including the capture and release of target EVs using MgCl₂ solutions to break antigen-antibody bonds.
• Innovation Exploration: Contribute to the design of an automated microfluidic chip for precise EV screening and isolation. Test and validate the system for scalability and reproducibility in various experimental conditions.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed experimental records and prepare data reports to support project findings. Contribute to scientific presentations and publications.
This opportunity is ideal for students or researchers with backgrounds in biomedical engineering, biotechnology, or related fields. Prior experience or interest in microfluidics, antibody-based techniques, and extracellular vesicle research is highly encouraged. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team are essential.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
We welcome applications from undergraduate students in their third year or above, as well as graduate students. This opportunity is ideal for those with a background or strong interest in biomedical engineering, biotechnology, molecular biology, or related fields.
Skill sets or Qualities
1. Technical Knowledge:
Has an interest in or is familiar with basic laboratory techniques in molecular biology, biophotonics, or biotechnology.
Demonstrates curiosity or prior experience with antibody-based binding techniques, particularly in extracellular vesicle research.
Enthusiastic about or has a basic understanding of optical systems such as Raman spectroscopy or microfluidics.
2. Analytical Skills:
Interested in developing skills for analyzing and interpreting experimental data with precision and attention to detail.
Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., ImageJ, Excel) or a willingness to learn and use them effectively.
3. Problem-Solving:
Has a proactive approach to troubleshooting experimental setups and optimizing protocols.
4. Collaboration:
Strong communication skills and a willingness to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary research team.
Open to sharing ideas and learning from others.
5. Organizational Skills:
Able to maintain detailed and accurate experimental records.
Capable of managing time effectively to meet project milestones and deadlines.
6. Adaptability and Enthusiasm:
Eager to learn and adapt to new techniques and technologies in a dynamic research environment.
Displays genuine interest in advancing research on extracellular vesicle isolation and biomedical innovation.
7. Language Proficiency:
Comfortable communicating in English for scientific discussions, documentation, and reporting.
Job Description
We are looking for motivated and talented individuals to join our research team to contribute to the development of magnetic bead sensing technology for the precise screening and isolation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) with specific exosomal CD markers (e.g., CD63, CD9, CD81). This internship or research opportunity offers hands-on experience in advanced biomedical research, focusing on innovative techniques for extracellular vesicle isolation and analysis.
As part of the team, you will work on optimizing and applying a novel microfluidic-based magnetic bead sensing platform. This technology integrates antibody specificity with magnetic capture techniques to efficiently isolate and purify extracellular vesicles with targeted exosomal markers. Responsibilities include:
• System Development and Optimization: Assist in the design and operation of a microfluidic-based magnetic bead sensing system to collect and isolate EVs. Contribute to enhancing the binding efficiency between EVs and magnetic beads using optimized flow channel designs and antibody-coated surfaces.
• Experimental Implementation: Perform experiments to isolate EVs using magnetic beads coated with antibodies against specific exosomal markers (CD63, CD9, CD81). Analyze the efficiency of binding, separation, and recovery rates under controlled conditions.
• EV Characterization: Assist in characterizing isolated EVs using imaging and biochemical methods. Evaluate their biochemical composition and purity for downstream applications.
• Protocol Development: Help refine the step-by-step protocol for magnetic bead isolation, including the capture and release of target EVs using MgCl₂ solutions to break antigen-antibody bonds.
• Innovation Exploration: Contribute to the design of an automated microfluidic chip for precise EV screening and isolation. Test and validate the system for scalability and reproducibility in various experimental conditions.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed experimental records and prepare data reports to support project findings. Contribute to scientific presentations and publications.
This opportunity is ideal for students or researchers with backgrounds in biomedical engineering, biotechnology, or related fields. Prior experience or interest in microfluidics, antibody-based techniques, and extracellular vesicle research is highly encouraged. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team are essential.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
We welcome applications from undergraduate students in their third year or above, as well as graduate students. This opportunity is ideal for those with a background or strong interest in biomedical engineering, biotechnology, molecular biology, or related fields.
Skill sets or Qualities
1. Technical Knowledge:
Has an interest in or is familiar with basic laboratory techniques in molecular biology, biophotonics, or biotechnology.
Demonstrates curiosity or prior experience with antibody-based binding techniques, particularly in extracellular vesicle research.
Enthusiastic about or has a basic understanding of optical systems such as Raman spectroscopy or microfluidics.
2. Analytical Skills:
Interested in developing skills for analyzing and interpreting experimental data with precision and attention to detail.
Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., ImageJ, Excel) or a willingness to learn and use them effectively.
3. Problem-Solving:
Has a proactive approach to troubleshooting experimental setups and optimizing protocols.
4. Collaboration:
Strong communication skills and a willingness to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary research team.
Open to sharing ideas and learning from others.
5. Organizational Skills:
Able to maintain detailed and accurate experimental records.
Capable of managing time effectively to meet project milestones and deadlines.
6. Adaptability and Enthusiasm:
Eager to learn and adapt to new techniques and technologies in a dynamic research environment.
Displays genuine interest in advancing research on extracellular vesicle isolation and biomedical innovation.
7. Language Proficiency:
Comfortable communicating in English for scientific discussions, documentation, and reporting.