Abstract

Translation of Microfluidic Technologies from the Laboratory to the Field

Joan Bienvenue, Executive Director, Applied Research Institute, University of Virginia

As microfluidic technology has advanced to the point of commercialization, many new companies, large and small, are working on devices and developments that will bring this exciting research to point-of use. Doing so, however, is a complicated task. From the translation of laboratory performance to meeting the challenging requirements of diagnostic or analytic systems, to business development and opportunity shaping, commercialization of microfluidic systems is more than simply building an instrument around a great idea. This presentation will take a closer look at the product development path for microfluidic systems, including tracing the path of a system developed for use in forensic and biometric human DNA analysis from concept to production. Additionally, the presentation will discuss the common mistakes and opportunities for success that exist in the translation of these systems to ruggedized, proven hardware.