John Charles Alderman

Title: Innovations by John Charles Alderman

Introduction

John Charles Alderman, an accomplished inventor from Cork, Ireland, has made significant contributions to the field of chemical and biological screening through his innovative designs. With a total of two patents to his name, Alderman has demonstrated his expertise in creating devices that enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of laboratory processes.

Latest Patents

Among his notable inventions is the "Assay device and method for chemical or biological screening." This innovative assay device features a base with an array of shallow microwells, each equipped with a flat rim that is co-planar. When covered with a glass plate lid, the structure creates a thin capillary gap that serves as a liquid seal for the microwell chambers. This design allows for the retention of excess sample liquid in overspill cavities, optimizing the performance of microfluidic devices while maintaining the ease of use associated with traditional microplate devices.

Another significant patent involves the "Micro-bridge structure," which outlines a method of fabricating a micro-bridge device on a substrate. The process includes providing a sacrificial material on the substrate’s surface, patternwise etching the sacrificial material, and layering a sensing material and support material. After removing the sacrificial material, the resulting structure is left free-standing above the substrate, offering unique advantages for various applications in sensing technologies.

Career Highlights

John Charles Alderman has had a fruitful career, collaborating with prominent institutions and companies. He has worked at University College Cork, part of the National University of Ireland, Cork, where he contributed to pioneering research and development. Additionally, his tenure at QinetiQ Limited has further honed his skills in innovative device creation and problem-solving.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Alderman has partnered with talented individuals such as Dmitri Boris Papkovsky and Rosemary O'Connor. These collaborations have enriched his projects, fostering an environment of creative exchange that has driven his innovations forward.

Conclusion

John Charles Alderman's work exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the field of chemical and biological screening. Through his patents and collaborative efforts, he continues to contribute valuable solutions that enhance laboratory practices and expand the capabilities of scientific research. His achievements reflect the important role inventors play in advancing technology for the betterment of society.