International Collaboration Fund 2025
Funded projectSustainable Electrochemical Lateral-Flow Assay Point-of-Care Technologies for Advancing Global Health
FUNDING TARGET
Lateral-flow assay (LFA) test strips are proven diagnostic technology, from pregnancy tests to COVID-19 kits, but they provide only qualitative yes/no results. This project aims to transform LFAs into quantitative advanced next-generation diagnostic tools by integrating electrochemical sensing technology.
The ICF award will provide essential seed funding to initiate a Scotland–Spain collaboration and prepare a competitive Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder proposal. The funding will support short reciprocal researcher visits and a focused workshop to refine research aims, experimental plans, and impact pathways. These activities represent the minimum foundation required to move from concept to a fundable project.
The ICF support will enable in-person collaboration and generate initial preliminary data to strengthen the application.
Collaborators

Dr Veerappan Mani
University of Strathclyde
Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry

Prof John McGrath
Queen's University Belfast
School of Biological Sciences

Dr Frank Katzer
Moredun Research Institute

Prof Arben Merkoçi
Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Nanobioelectronics & Biosensors Group

Prof Veikko Linko
University of Tartu
Molecular Nanotechnology

Prof Robert Johnson
University College Dublin
School of Chemistry

Prof Fabiana Arduini
University of Rome
Department of Analytical Chemistry