Machine Learning-Driven Electrochemical Sensors for Antibiotics Detection in Water
Wenchao Duan, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia
Monday 7 July 2025, 12.00 PM
ICMAB - Sala d'Actes Carles Miravitlles
Abstract
The presence of antibiotic contaminants in water sources poses a significant threat to environmental and public health, necessitating rapid and accurate detection methods. This study explores the development of machine learning-driven electrochemical sensors for real-time antibiotic detection in water. By integrating advanced data-driven algorithms with highly sensitive electrode materials and optimized fluidic systems, the proposed system enhances detection accuracy, selectivity, and limit of detection compared to conventional techniques. A supervised learning model is trained on electrochemical response data to classify and quantify various antibiotic residues, enabling automated and precise analysis. The sensor platform is designed for portability and cost-effectiveness, making it suitable for large-scale environmental monitoring. Experimental validation demonstrates the efficacy of the approach, highlighting its potential for deployment in water quality assessment and regulatory compliance. This research underscores the transformative role of machine learning in advancing electrochemical sensing technologies for environmental monitoring applications.
Short bio
Dr. Wenchao Duan is an agricultural scientist at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Australia (https://www.csiro.au), which serves as Australia's national science agency and has been recognized with prestigious accolades such as the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.
Dr. Duan is a member of CSIRO’s Agriculture & Food business unit, where he is dedicated to advancing innovative solutions for environmental and industrial challenges. His current research focuses on developing machine learning-driven electrochemical sensors to detect contamination in food and water. These sensors aim to monitor water quality during aquaculture production and ensure food safety in the food industry.
Dr. Duan earned his PhD in September 2022 from the Institute of Materials Science of Barcelona (ICMAB) and the Institute of Microelectronics of Barcelona (IMB-CNM). Following his doctoral studies, he joined CSIRO as a Winanga-y Postdoctoral Fellow, a role designed to train emerging scientists in addressing critical scientific challenges.
In March 2025, Dr. Duan was honored as one of ten scientist ambassadors representing Australia at the 2025 Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in Germany. This prestigious event is expected to convene 35 Nobel Laureates, providing a unique platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration between Nobel Laureates and young scientists from around the world.
Hosted by Martí Gich, from the NN group (Materials for Electronics Research Line)
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