The skin is a complex organ organized in several layers (stratum corneum, epidermis, dermis) that provides a bidirectional exchange between the body and its environment. Access to these different layers is required to characterize and diagnose skin diseases such as cancer, psoriasis… Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) consists in illuminating the tissue surface while spectrally analysing the reflected light after photons interaction with the living tissues constituents. The objective of this thesis proposed at LISA laboratory at CEA / LETI-Grenoble Minatec, is to develop an instrument based on the DRS technique using a matrix sensor in order to characterize the skin layers. Applications targeted by such a device are, for example, the study of crossing of the epidermis-dermis junction by exogenous agents or by natural secretions.

In this thesis, the student will develop a layered model of light diffusion in skin tissues.

In parallel, the student will design a novel DRS instrument whose architecture will be based on a matrix optical sensor in contact with the skin and an adequate lighting (LEDs) .This work combining modelling, signal processing and instrumentation is intended for a student with training in optics and mathematics applied to physics. Our multidisciplinary laboratory works at the interface between physics and life sciences. This thesis will provide the doctoral student a solid scientific training and an opening to both academic and industrial research.

This position is open until it is filled.

Department: Département Microtechnologies pour la Biologie et la Santé (LETI)
Laboratory: Laboratoire Imagerie et Systèmes d’Acquisition
Start Date: 01-10-2015
ECA Code: SL-DRT-15-0341
Contact: anne.koenig<στο>cea.fr