The second generation of large scale interferometric gravitational wave detectors will be limited by quantum noise over a wide frequency range in their detection band. Further sensitivity improvements for future upgrades or new detectors beyond the second generation motivate the development of measurement schemes to mitigate the impact of quantum noise in these instruments. Two strands of development are being pursued to reach this goal, focusing both on modifications of the well-established Michelson detector configuration and development of different detector topologies. In this paper, we present the design of the world's first Sagnac speed meter interferometer which is currently being constructed at the University of Glasgow. With this proof-of-principle experiment we aim to demonstrate the theoretically predicted lower quantum noise in a Sagnac interferometer compared to an equivalent Michelson interferometer, to qualify Sagnac speed meters for further research towards an implementation in a future generation large scale gravitational wave detector, such as the planned Einstein Telescope observatory.

Biophysical cues robustly direct cell responses and are thus important tools for in vitro and translational biomedical applications. High throughput platforms exploring substrates with varying physical properties are therefore valuable. However, currently existing platforms are limited in throughput, the biomaterials used, the capability to segregate between different cues and the assessment of dynamic responses. Here we present a multiwell array (3 × 8) made of a substrate engineered to present topography or rigidity cues welded to a bottomless plate with a 96-well format. Both the patterns on the engineered substrate and the well plate format can be easily customized, permitting systematic and efficient screening of biophysical cues. To demonstrate the broad range of possible biophysical cues examinable, we designed and tested three multiwell arrays to influence cardiomyocyte, chondrocyte and osteoblast function. Using the multiwell array, we were able to measure different cell functionalities using analytical modalities such as live microscopy, qPCR and immunofluorescence. We observed that grooves (5 μ m in size) induced less variation in contractile function of cardiomyocytes. Compared to unpatterned plastic, nanopillars with 127 nm height, 100 nm diameter and 300 nm pitch enhanced matrix deposition, chondrogenic gene expression and chondrogenic maintenance. High aspect ratio pillars with an elastic shear modulus of 16 kPa mimicking the matrix found in early stages of bone development improved osteogenic gene expression compared to stiff plastic. We envisage that our bespoke multiwell array will accelerate the discovery of relevant biophysical cues through improved throughput and variety.

Biophysical cues robustly direct cell responses and are thus important tools for in vitro and translational biomedical applications. High throughput platforms exploring substrates with varying physical properties are therefore valuable, however, currently existing platforms are limited in throughput, the biomaterials used, the capability to segregate between different cues and the assessment of dynamic cellular responses. Here we present a multiwell array (3x8) using a substrate engineered with patterns that present topography or rigidity cues welded to a bottomless plate with a 96-well format. Both the patterns on the engineered substrate and the well plate format can be easily customized, permitting systematic and efficient screening of biophysical cues. Here, we demonstrate three multiwell arrays patterned with a variety of topographical and mechanical cues (nano-grooves, soft pillars and nano pillars) tested with three different cell types. Using the multiwell array, we were able to measure cell functionality using analytical modalities such as live microscopy, qPCR and fluorescent immunochemistry. Cardiomyocytes cultured on 5µm grooves showed less variation in electrophysiology and contractile function. Nanopillars with 127 nm height, 100 nm diameter and 300 nm pitch showed improved chondrogenic maintenance from matrix deposition and chondrogenic gene expression. High aspect ratio pillars with an elastic shear modulus of 16 kPa mimicking the cortical bone altered cell adhesion, morphology, and increased expression of osteogenic genes. We have demonstrated the bespoke, controlled and highthroughput properties of the multiwell array that are currently unparalleled in the field today.