A global information and communications technology company has made a grant to support development of low-cost virus sensors by Junhong Chen, UWM distinguished professor of mechanical engineering.
Huawei Technologies, based in Shenzhen, China, supports research of advancements in world-changing civil technologies.
Chen’s graphene-based sensor platform, originally created to identify trace amounts of water contaminants, can also be applied to detecting the Ebola virus by targeting seven associated proteins present in human body fluids.
A quick “spit-test” method of identifying the disease will help health care workers contain an outbreak, make on-the-spot decisions and manage resources more efficiently. The project has already attracted funding from the National Science Foundation.
“We are grateful for this investment,” said Chen. “This unrestricted support will be put to use where we need it most, enhancing our laboratory, purchasing equipment, and supporting graduate researchers who are part of my team.”
