Course for members of GS EAM and member RTGs in collobaration with the Sensory Sciences Lab
Date: 28.10.2029 from 9:00 am till 5:00 pm
Venue: Henkestraße 91, 91052 Erlangen
Trainer: Prof. D. Gregurec / Dr. N. Goldenstein
Participation will be acknowledged by a certificate.
Program:
This one-day workshop provides participants with a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practical implementation of electromagnetic stimulation systems for magnetic nanoparticle-based neuromodulation. Combining theoretical foundations with hands-on demonstrations, the course explores how magnetic fields can be used to remotely activate engineered nanomaterials and influence neural activity in biological systems.
The morning session focuses on the fundamentals of electromagnetism, including magnetic field generation, magnetic flux, and the characteristics of direct and alternating magnetic fields. Participants will gain an overview of magnetic nanoparticles used in biomedical applications, their interactions with biological tissues, and their emerging role in neuromodulation. Key mechanisms of neural stimulation—including magnetomechanical and magnetoelectric approaches—will be discussed alongside important experimental considerations, controls, and limitations.
The afternoon session introduces computational and experimental tools for designing and characterizing electromagnetic stimulation systems. Participants will learn the basics of electromagnetic field simulations using COMSOL, including coil modeling, magnetic field distribution analysis, and field optimization for biological applications. Practical sessions will cover the operation of signal generators, power amplifiers, oscilloscopes, and magnetic field measurement equipment. The workshop concludes with a live demonstration of an electromagnetic stimulation setup, providing participants with direct experience in coil operation, system characterization, troubleshooting, and experimental best practices.
By the end of the course, participants will have gained a solid understanding of the physical principles, instrumentation, and experimental methodologies required to design, evaluate, and implement electromagnetic stimulation systems for magnetic nanoparticle-based neuromodulation research.
Morning Session: Fundamentals and Biological Applications
- Fundamentals of Electromagnetism
- Magnetic fields and magnetic flux
- DC vs. AC magnetic fields
- Frequency, waveform, and field strength
- Magnetic Nanoparticles in Biomedicine
- Types and properties of magnetic nanoparticles
- Nanoparticle tissue interactions
- Applications in neuromodulation
- Mechanisms of Neural Stimulation
- Magnetomechanical stimulation
- Magnetoelectric stimulation
- Experimental considerations and controls
Afternoon Session: Simulation, Instrumentation, and Practical Demonstration
- Electromagnetic Field Simulation (COMSOL Example)
- Introduction to electromagnetic simulations
- Coil modeling and magnetic field distribution
- Field optimization for biological experiments
- Instrumentation and Field Characterization
- Signal generators and power amplifiers
- Oscilloscope fundamentals
- Measurement and characterization of magnetic fields
- Practical Demonstration
- Operating an electromagnetic stimulation system
- Coil driving and system characterization
- Discussion, troubleshooting, and Q&A