Project Grant 2533720

Summary of Federal Project Grant Award

Oregon State University received a $443,904 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Directorate for Engineering (CFDA 47.041) awarded July 15, 2026, with completion targeted for June 30, 2029. The project develops a novel biosensing platform based on electrocatalytic surface molecularly imprinted polymers that function as synthetic enzyme mimics for continuous, real-time electrochemical detection of small molecules. The deliverable overcomes critical limitations in existing biosensor technology by replacing fragile biological receptors—such as enzymes and antibodies—with durable, electrically controlled synthetic materials capable of long-term and continuous operation in field and clinical settings outside laboratory environments.

The core technical innovation involves ultra-thin polymer sensing layers deposited directly on electrode surfaces and engineered to recognize specific target molecules. These layers incorporate built-in catalysts that drive chemical reactions; upon molecular binding, a small electrical signal triggers a measurable electrochemical response proportional to the number of bound molecules. The platform design enables electrical control of product release and sensor reset, permitting repeated measurements in complex biological fluids. The flexible platform architecture allows adaptation to detect different molecules relevant to human health monitoring, including hormones, metabolites, and therapeutic drugs. Broader impacts include advancing biosensing science through reliable continuous monitoring, supporting interdisciplinary student training, and enabling improved health and environmental sensing applications.