Researchers develop mobile coronavirus testing device

As part of the MicroCoVSens project, researchers are developing a new portable device designed to simplify testing for coronaviruses. The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Italian Switzerland (SUPSI), the Institute of Oncology Research (IOR), which is affiliated with the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI: University of Italian Switzerland), and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) are all participating in this project.

The new portable coronavirus testing device developed by the researchers is designed to deliver a result within the space of just ten minutes, as detailed by a press release issued by USI. This is set to replace lab-based testing processes that require a great deal of time and manpower. According to information in the press release, the device should also be able to be operated by people without any specialist professional training. The aim is to use this device at airports, train stations and other similar locations.

According to information presented in the press release, the device is designed to function by way of an ultra-sensitive bio-sensor that can be manufactured at low cost. All that is needed to conduct the test is a saliva sample. In future, the objective is to use this device to rapidly test for other viruses. Moreover, it should also be able to test for several viruses all at the same time.

Information from USI reveals that the MicroCoVSens project has received funding of over one million Swiss francs from the Swiss National Science Foundation.