Advance Innovation Hub Proof-of-Concept Fund

2026 Advance Innovation Hub Awards

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Transvenous Coronary Sinus Annuloplasty Device for Canine Mitral Valve Disease
Dr. Tamilselvam Gunasekaran, Michigan State University, $25,000

Mitral valve disease is the most common acquired heart condition in dogs, affecting an estimated two million animals and frequently progressing to congestive heart failure. Existing repair options are expensive or limited to a small number of specialist centers. This project is developing a minimally invasive implant delivered through the jugular vein to a vessel near the mitral valve, where it applies gentle pressure to reduce leakage. Advance funding will support bench and cadaver testing of the delivery system, helping prepare the technology for patent protection, customer discovery, and a licensing or startup decision.

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AI-Integrated Spectroscopy for Early Powdery Mildew Detection in Grapevines
Dr. Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, Michigan State University, $25,000

Powdery mildew is one of the most damaging diseases affecting vineyards, prompting frequent preventive fungicide applications that increase production costs and environmental burdens. This project is refining a field-deployable sensing system that combines spectroscopy with machine learning to identify infection before visible symptoms emerge. Earlier detection could help growers apply treatments precisely where and when they are needed rather than spraying entire vineyards as a precaution. Advance funding will support model optimization, testing under real vineyard conditions, and development of scalable deployment strategies, moving the technology toward a licensable precision disease management platform.

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EUREFSTICS for Ammonia Storage
Dr. Thomas W. Hamann, Michigan State University, $25,000

Ammonia is essential to fertilizer production and is gaining attention as a clean energy carrier, but conventional storage requires high pressure or extremely low temperatures, adding cost and safety challenges. This project builds on the discovery that certain inorganic salts combine with ammonia at room temperature and normal atmospheric pressure to form a new class of liquid solutions called eurefstics. Advance funding will help the team identify compositions offering the most promising balance of storage capacity, safety, and affordability. The work could move this fundamental discovery toward a practical commercial alternative for storing and transporting ammonia.

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A Method to Measure the Viscosity and Density of Fluids and Soft Solids Using a Vibrating Dipstick
Dr. Sunil Kishore Chakrapani, Michigan State University, $20,000

Accurate measurement of viscosity and density is important in food production, pharmaceuticals, and industrial manufacturing, but existing methods can be slow, labor-intensive, or difficult to integrate into production lines. This project is advancing a vibrating dipstick sensor that uses machine learning to calculate these properties from the device’s response when placed in a sample. Current prediction accuracy exceeds 90%. Advance funding will support an automated sample-handling system, creation of a larger and more varied training dataset, and efforts to raise accuracy above 95%, including evaluation in soft foods such as cheese and milk curds.

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A Mobile Robotic Platform for Real-Time In-Situ Chemical Sensing
Dr. Zhaojian Li, Michigan State University, $24,530

Monitoring soil chemistry typically requires collecting samples and sending them to a laboratory, making the process too slow and costly for real-time agricultural decisions. The focus of this project is the development of a mobile robotic platform that autonomously collects, mixes, and conditions soil samples before analyzing them with onboard chemical sensors. The system is designed to deliver field results within ten minutes and at greater than 90% accuracy. In collaboration with Dr. Wen Li’s electrochemical sensing group, the team is also adding heavy-metal detection, supporting a longer-term vision for affordable, large-scale mapping of soil nutrients and contamination.

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Development of Novel Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitors with Improved CNS and Retina Exposure for Treating Migraine
Dr. Kin Sing Steven Lee and Dr. Edmund Ellsworth, Michigan State University, $25,000

Migraine affects roughly 12% of the global population, yet many patients receive inadequate relief from existing treatments, while newer options remain costly and carry uncertainty about long-term use. In  this early-stage project, the research team is developing oral compounds that inhibit soluble epoxide hydrolase, an enzyme associated with pain and inflammation. This approach has demonstrated effectiveness in animal migraine models but has been limited by poor drug properties and insufficient penetration into the brain and retina. Advance funding will support synthesis and screening of 20 targeted compounds and pharmacokinetic studies to identify a promising candidate for development as a non-opioid migraine therapy.

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Humanization of an Anticancer Monoclonal Antibody
Dr. Xuefei Huang, Michigan State University, $20,000

Pancreatic cancer and several other cancers produce abnormally high levels of the CA19-9 antigen, making it a promising target for antibody-based treatments. The research team developed a monoclonal antibody called 13A7 that binds CA19-9 with substantially higher affinity than an antibody currently undergoing human clinical trials. The antibody has also killed pancreatic cancer cells and inhibited tumor growth in animal models. Because 13A7 originated in mice, it must be modified to reduce the risk of an immune reaction in humans. Advance funding will support this humanization process, a critical step toward developing a potential cancer therapy.

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Discovery and Optimization of Novel Topical AP-1 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris
Dr. Sunny Y. Wong, University of Michigan, $25,000

Acne affects millions of people, but the most effective treatments can cause significant side effects, including irritation from topical retinoids and serious risks associated with oral isotretinoin. Through spatial analysis of human acne tissue, this team identified abnormal activity in the AP-1 protein signaling pathway, which appears to help drive the disease at a molecular level. Advance funding will support development and optimization of compounds designed for topical delivery that inhibit AP-1 more effectively than existing options. The project could establish a first-in-class treatment strategy for acne and potentially other skin conditions involving the same biological pathway.

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Towards an Electrochemical Immuno-Sensing Platform for Monitoring Biomarkers of Lung Cancer and Cardiac Dysfunction in Exhaled Breath Condensate
Dr. Greg M. Swain, Michigan State University, $25,000

Lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy currently need blood draws and clinical visits to evaluate treatment response and determine whether therapy is affecting the heart. In this project researchers are developing a diagnostic system that analyzes exhaled breath condensate, a non-invasive biofluid collected through normal breathing, to measure established markers of cancer response and cardiac stress. Advance funding will support prototypes of two electrochemical sensing assays designed for this liquid-biopsy approach. The long-term goal is a point-of-care device that could enable convenient, continuous monitoring at home, giving patients and clinicians more timely information throughout cancer treatment.

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Commercializing Slow-Release Urine-Derived NPK Fertilizers
Dr. Nancy G. Love, University of Michigan, $25,000

Conventional fertilizer production consumes substantial energy and depends on mined resources, while human urine contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in forms plants can readily use. This project is advancing a process that converts urine into powdered and potentially pelletized slow-release fertilizers for gardening and landscaping markets, where sustainability can influence purchasing decisions. Advance funding will support development of low-odor formulations, evaluation of pelletizing methods to improve nutrient-release performance, and customer interviews. The findings will help determine whether the material should become a standalone fertilizer product or be commercialized more directly as an ingredient in existing sustainable fertilizer formulations.

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Develop Therapeutic Extracellular Vesicles to Heal Wounds
Dr. Jiemei Wang, Wayne State University, $25,000

Chronic wounds in older adults and people with diabetes often fail to heal despite available treatments, creating serious health complications and substantial healthcare burdens. This team has shown that activating a specific cellular stress-response pathway can accelerate wound healing in animal models. Researchers have also found that the therapeutic signal can be delivered through extracellular vesicles, natural nanoscale particles cells use to communicate. Advance funding will support development of stable engineered cell lines that consistently produce these vesicles in sufficient quantities. This work is an important step toward a non-viral, low-toxicity wound therapy suitable for further testing and commercialization.

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Automated and Reliable Calibration and Data Management Toolkit for a Wearable Intraocular Pressure Sensing System
Dr. Wen Li, Michigan State University, $20,698

Glaucoma is the world’s second-leading cause of blindness and is managed primarily by controlling pressure inside the eye, yet conventional monitoring depends on periodic clinic visits that can miss important fluctuations. This team has developed a wearable contact lens sensor capable of continuous, non-invasive intraocular pressure monitoring and demonstrated its effectiveness in early testing. Advance funding will support an automated calibration platform, a graphical interface for reliable data collection and wireless transmission, and safety testing of the sensor materials. These improvements will address key technical barriers separating the existing prototype from readiness for clinical trials and eventual commercial development.

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Anti-Bacterial Coating for Implants and Medical Devices
Dr. Bei Fan, Michigan State University, $25,000

Infections involving pacemakers, defibrillators, and other implanted cardiac devices occur in up to 2% of procedures and may require complete device removal, costing $50,000 to $120,000 per episode. Existing antibiotic-releasing coatings provide only temporary protection and contribute to antimicrobial-resistance concerns. This project is advancing an antibiotic-free coating that uses hydrophobic and steric effects to physically prevent bacteria from attaching to implant surfaces. Advance funding will support laboratory and animal-model testing against two clinically relevant bacterial strains, along with evaluation of whether the coating maintains its protective properties after sterilization, an essential requirement for potential medical-device licensing partners.

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UV Light-Emitting Diodes
Dr. Yoke Khin Yap, Michigan Technological University, $25,000

Quantum dots have improved digital displays by enabling precise and tunable color production, but many existing materials rely on toxic elements such as cadmium and lead, while dependable blue quantum dots remain difficult to produce. This team has developed non-toxic quantum dots that emit ultraviolet light, potentially enabling next-generation display pixels without conventional blue LED backlights. Advance funding will support development of ultraviolet light-emitting diodes using these materials. The project could establish a new foundation for flexible and wearable display technologies while advancing a non-toxic alternative for a projected target market valued at $7.4 billion.

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HSAT Nasal Pressure Cannula Securement Device
Dr. Sonja G. Schuetz, University of Michigan, $15,000

Home sleep apnea tests use a nasal pressure cannula to measure breathing, but the cannula can move out of position during an unattended overnight test, producing unclear results and sometimes requiring the test to be repeated. This project is developing a single-use foam device that keeps the cannula properly positioned by addressing several common failure modes, including lateral movement, rotation, condensation, and signal loss caused by kinking. Advance funding will support fabrication of 25 to 50 prototype units and bench validation. The team envisions commercializing the technology through licensing to an original equipment manufacturer serving the sleep-testing market.

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A Beacon-Based Airport Ground Traffic Safety and Access Control System
Dr. Yanchao Liu, Wayne State University, $25,000

Although the FAA recorded more than 1,700 runway incursions in 2023, most small general aviation airports cannot afford the advanced surface surveillance systems needed to reduce these numbers. Researchers at Wayne State University (WSU) are working on a lower cost solution.  This project is adding two capabilities to an existing WSU conflict-detection system: an access-control layer that issues or revokes electronic clearance tokens for runways and taxiways, and a portable beacon that communicates clearance status through color and sound without vehicle modifications or driver training. Advance funding will support development of both components. Michigan’s approximately 230 general aviation airports represent an initial target market for the team’s proposed subscription-based safety service.

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Nonlinear Optical Crystal Ba3(ZnB5O10)PO4 (BZBP): Toward Commercial High-Performance Photonic Applications
Dr. Yuejian Wang, Oakland University, $25,000

High-powered lasers used in semiconductor manufacturing and scientific research require optical crystals to convert light into specific wavelengths, but commercially available materials can be toxic or unstable under demanding conditions. This project is validating a new synthesis method for BZBP, a non-toxic and highly stable crystal intended for deep-ultraviolet optical applications. Advance funding will support synthesis optimization using in-situ synchrotron monitoring at Argonne National Laboratory and industrial performance benchmarking with Coherent Inc. The resulting proof-of-concept data will help determine the material’s commercial potential and support future licensing discussions or an application for federal small-business development funding.

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Biomass-Derived Hard Carbon for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Dr. Ankun Yang, Oakland University, $25,000

Sodium-ion batteries offer a potentially affordable alternative to lithium-ion technology because sodium is abundant and inexpensive, but they require different anode materials because sodium cannot enter graphite in the same way as lithium. This team has developed a method for converting corn cobs, an agricultural residue generated in large quantities in Michigan, into high-performance hard carbon for sodium-ion battery anodes. Advance funding will support improvements in battery performance, development of a scalable production process, and refinement of the commercialization strategy. The technology could transform a low-value agricultural byproduct into a strategic domestic material for energy storage.

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Toward Batteryless Wireless Microphone Commercialization
Dr. Huacheng Zeng, Michigan State University, $25,000

Wireless microphones rely on batteries that require regular charging, create the risk of power failure during use, and contribute to electronic waste. This project is advancing TagMic, a batteryless wireless microphone that harvests energy from radio-frequency signals already present in the surrounding environment. Advance funding will support the transition from a research prototype to custom semiconductor components and a professional-quality circuit board. The team will also conduct regulatory analysis related to FCC compliance. Together, these steps will move the technology closer to licensing or startup commercialization in professional audio applications and other markets requiring environmentally sustainable wireless sensing.

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Early Screening of Alzheimer’s Risk Based on EEG and Machine Learning
Dr. Tongtong Li, Michigan State University, $25,000

Detecting Alzheimer’s disease early enough to support meaningful intervention remains a major challenge because current screening approaches can be expensive, invasive, or dependent on specialized facilities. This team has developed an AI-powered tool that analyzes brain activity captured through a standard EEG examination lasting three to five minutes. In a pilot study, the approach predicted Alzheimer’s-related brain changes with accuracy comparable to blood-based biomarkers. Advance funding will support additional validation in preparation for clinical use. The long-term goal is to make early Alzheimer’s risk screening more affordable and accessible within primary care and other community-based healthcare settings.

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Multi-Tunnel Demineralized Human Bone Matrix Membrane for Fully Guided Periodontal Tissue Regeneration
Dr. Qiming Jin, University of Michigan, $22,141

Periodontal disease affects nearly half of U.S. adults, but current regenerative treatments restore only 30% to 60% of lost tissue and cannot reliably reconstruct the complete tooth-supporting structure. This team has designed a demineralized human bone matrix membrane containing precisely arranged tunnels that guide growth of the periodontal ligament, the fibrous tissue connecting teeth to bone. Advance funding will support optimization of the tunnel geometry, which pilot studies identified as a critical factor in successful regeneration. The resulting data will provide a technical foundation for future FDA regulatory submissions and potential licensing of a more complete periodontal regeneration technology.

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Commercial Production of Isotopically Labeled Cyanopeptide Standards: ABP A, ABP B, ABP F, and Oscillamide Y
Dr. Jeremy Kodanko, Wayne State University, $25,000

Harmful algal blooms can contaminate drinking water and recreational waterways with numerous toxic compounds, but testing remains limited because reference standards do not exist for many of these substances. This project will produce the first isotopically labeled standards for four cyanopeptides found in algal blooms, allowing laboratories to detect and accurately quantify them using standard mass-spectrometry methods. Advance funding will support final synthesis optimization, pilot manufacturing, analytical validation, and initial customer outreach. The project has a defined near-term commercialization pathway through a startup company or licensing to an established supplier of analytical reference standards.

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Development of Novel Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis in Dogs
Dr. Kin Sing Steven Lee, Michigan State University, $24,499

Osteoarthritis affects an estimated 15 million dogs in the United States and is commonly treated with anti-inflammatory drugs that can cause significant side effects when used over extended periods. This project focuses on developing orally administered compounds that inhibit soluble epoxide hydrolase, an approach that has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing effects in dogs with osteoarthritis. Advance funding will support screening of an existing compound library, synthesis of 20 to 25 optimized candidates, and pharmacokinetic testing. The goal is to identify a lead compound ready for canine efficacy studies within a market estimated at approximately $1 billion.

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Eye Drop Adherence Monitoring System to Enable Glaucoma Self-Management Support
Dr. Paula Anne Newman-Casey, University of Michigan, $25,000

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness and is treated primarily with medicated eye drops, yet fewer than 40% of patients administer their medication as prescribed. This team has developed a prototype monitoring device that evaluates whether eye drops are being used correctly and may also detect early indications of neurological conditions. Advance funding will support regulatory and reimbursement consultation, market analysis, and design-for-manufacturing improvements. These activities will prepare the technology for usability testing and a future multi-health-system study evaluating whether the device can improve medication adherence, self-management, and long-term vision outcomes.

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The BestFeeder: A Novel Device to Increase Breastfeeding Success
Dr. John P. Farris, Grand Valley State University, $24,600

More than 70% of U.S. infants do not meet recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding during their first six months, and early supplementation can contribute to that gap because conventional feeding devices provide constant flow rather than reinforcing natural suckling patterns. The BestFeeder uses real-time intraoral pressure sensing to adjust milk flow dynamically, reproducing the cyclical rhythm of breastfeeding while helping infants develop suckling skills and supporting maternal milk production. Advance funding will support algorithm development, flow-control design, and prototype testing, moving the device toward commercialization as a transitional tool connecting necessary early supplementation with successful exclusive breastfeeding.

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Metabolomics of Donor Livers During Normothermic Machine Perfusion as Predictors of Graft Function
Dr. Jonathan Xia, University of Michigan, $18,084

Normothermic machine perfusion keeps donor livers functioning outside the body before transplantation, but physicians have limited tools for predicting how well an organ will perform after surgery. This project will use mass spectrometry to analyze metabolites in the perfusion fluid surrounding donor livers and identify molecular patterns associated with transplant outcomes. Advance funding will support this pilot profiling study. The long-term goal is to discover biomarkers that provide transplant surgeons with stronger evidence when deciding whether to accept an organ, while reducing unexpected complications and improving the assessment of donor liver function before transplantation.

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ContainDiff: A Lateral Position Enema Outflow Drain and Splash Shield
Dr. Vincent Young, University of Michigan, $25,000

Patients with severe Clostridioides difficile infection often require retention enemas because oral or nasogastric administration of medication is not feasible. However, administering enemas to bedridden patients in a lateral position can result in leakage, splash injuries, contamination of bedding and healthcare environments, and increased risk of spreading infection. This project is developing ContainDiff, a combined splash shield and absorbent collection system designed to safely contain enema outflow while preserving patient comfort and dignity. The technology could improve infection control, reduce healthcare worker exposure, and support treatment of severe C. difficile infections, including administration of fecal microbiota therapies.

2023 Awardees

Awarded January 4, 2023

• Dr. Subir Biswas, Michigan State University, “AI‐based Remote UroVibroMetry for Automated Collection and Analysis of Urination Episodes” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded January 13, 2023

• Dr. Mai T Lam, Western Michigan University, “A Tissue Engineered Benchtop Model of Atherosclerosis” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded February 1, 2023

• Dr. Maxwell Raithel, University of Michigan, “Novel Device Facilitating Single-Handed Vessel Cannulation Under Continuous Ultrasound Guidance” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded February 7, 2023

• Dr. Steven M Carr, Western Michigan University, “Using Integrity Controls to Prevent Ransomware” ($9,950 MEDC,  $9,950 Match)

Awarded February 9, 2023

• Dr. Steven M. Durbin, Western Michigan University, “Helios: Solar Weather Analysis Beyond Machine Learning” ($12,000 MEDC,  $12,000 Match)

2022 Awardees

Awarded Feb 1, 2022

• Dr. Samson, Perry, University of Michigan, “Personalized Study Guides for College Students” ($20,000 MEDC, $20,000 Match)

Awarded Mar 21, 2022

• Dr. Swain, Greg, Michigan State University,” Diagnostic Technology for Monitoring Exhaled Breath Condensate Applied to Bovine Respiratory Disease Monitoring and Management ” ( $20,000 MEDC, $20,000 Match)

Awarded Mar 29, 2022

• Dr. Meyer, Richard, Western Michigan University, “Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence for Power Wheelchair Training and Support” ($19,954 MEDC, $19,954 Match)

Awarded Mar 31, 2022

• Dr. Baker, Wayne, University of Michigan, ”Virtual Reality 3D Visualization Software for Temporal Networks” ($18,000 MEDC, $18,000 Match)

Awarded May 1, 2022

• Dr. Lee, Kin Sing Steven, Michigan State University, “Soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitors to treat traumatic brain injury (TBI)” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded June 13, 2022

• Dr. Colin Greineder, University of Michigan, “Bone-targeted, acid-activated protease inhibitors – a platform technology for osteoporosis and osteolytic disorders” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded August 16, 2022

• Dr. Federica Brandizzi, Michigan State University, “Improvement of crop nutritional value and growth through enhancement of essential amino acid levels” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded August 16, 2022

• Dr. Robert Abramovitch, Michigan State University, “MmpL3 inhibitors to treat Mycobacterial infections (TB and NTM infections)” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded August 19, 2022

• Dr. Scott Miers, Michigan Tech University, “Gen2 Mini-PEMS Prototype Development” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded September 20, 2022

• Dr. Pingsha Dong, University of Michigan, “A User Element Technique for Enabling High-Fidelity CAE Durability Evaluation of Spot-Welded Structures” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded December 5, 2022

• Dr. Muhammad Rabnawaz, Michigan State University, “Development of repulpable paper derived from plant oils” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Awarded December 5, 2022

• Dr. Kevin Maki, University of Michigan, “Watts 3D Wind Sensor” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)

Fall 2021 Awardees

Awarded Oct 12, 2021

• Dr. Singh, Nirala, University of Michigan, “Ammonia Production From Waste Nitrate Using Electrocatalytic Reduction”-( $20,000 MEDC, $20,000 Match)

Awarded Nov 17, 2021

• Dr. Rabnawaz, Muhammad, Michigan State University, “Creating Bottle-Grade PET Feedstocks from recycled Mixed PET and PETG Bales” ($20,000 MEDC,  $20,000 Match)
• Dr. Liby, Karen, Michigan State University, “Advancement of MSU-42011 for Treatment of CTCL and NF-1”($20,000 MEDC, $20,000 Match)

Awarded Dec 20, 2021

• Dr. Werner, R. Marshall, Grand Valley State University, “Engineering refinements for Auto-injector for snakebite envenomation” ($18,900 MEDC, $18,900 Match)
• Dr. Lee, Yunju, Grand Valley State University, “Development of Markerless 3D Human Motion Capture Framework for 2D Videos Using Deep Learning” ($20,000 MEDC, $20,000 Match)

Spring 2021 Awardees

Awarded March 29, 2021

• Dr. Johnson Asumadu, Western Michigan University, “Magnetic Nanoparticle-based Gyroscopic Sensor” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)
• Dr. Roland Graf, University of Michigan, “iGYM: A Peripersonal Boundary-Based Augmented Reality System for Inclusive Play and Exercise” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)
• Dr. Pablo Gomez, Western Michigan University, “Technology for Enhanced Fault Location in Overhead and Underground Electric Power Grids” – ($19,975 MEDC; $19,978 match)

Winter 2021 Awardees

Awarded January 29, 2021

• Dr. Greg Allen, Michigan Technological University, “Enhanced Two-Phase Heat Exchanger for High Heat-Flux Devices: Cooling the Future of High Power Density Electronics” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Awarded February 23, 2021

• Dr. Marilyn Filter, University of Michigan, “FemScope: A Vaginal Imaging and Cell Collection Device” – ($13,000 MEDC; $13,000 match)

Fall 2020 Awardees

Awarded September 21, 2020

• Dr. Zachery Asher, Western Michigan University – “Automotive Sensor Layout and Fusion Refinement for Improved Corner Case Performance” – ($25,000 MEDC; $25,000 match)

Awarded October 23, 2020

• Dr. Muhammad Rabnawaz, Michigan State University – “Commodity Polyethylene for High Performance 3D printing Applications” – ($25,000 MEDC; $25,000 match)

Awarded November 30, 2020

• Dr. Rodrigo Fernandez-Valdivia, Wayne State University – “Ultra-specific and Ultra-sensitive Platform for Highly-reliable and High-precision sars-CoV-2 Detection and COVID-19 Diagnostics” – ($35,000 MEDC; $17,500 match)

Awarded December 15, 2020

• Dr. Jun Hee Lee, University of Michigan – “NGST: Next-generation Spatial/single-cell Transcriptomics” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Awarded December 29, 2020

• Dr. Tamara Bush, Michigan State University – “Uber Wheelchair: An Autonomous Wheelchair with On-demand and Self-driving Services for the Mobility Challenged” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)
• Dr. Qi Hua Fan, Michigan State University – “Develop an Oil-Water Separation Material Based on Renewable Biochar” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Summer 2020 Awardees

Awarded August 20, 2020

• Dr. Jing-Pin Jin, Wayne State University – “Methods to detect a novel diagnostic marker for acute myocardia ischemia” – ($25,000 MEDC; $25,000 match)

Spring 2020 Awardees

Awarded May 5, 2020

• Dr. Tamara Bush, Michigan State University – “A device for hand rehabilitation feedback and remote monitoring after surgery” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)
• Dr. Daniel Taylor, Ferris State University – “Prototype of an adaptor to connect spectacles with cochlear implants” – ($23,284 MEDC; $23,284 match)

Awarded June 2, 2020

• Dr. Andrej Lenert, University of Michigan – “Development of a prototype radiation-assisted PV thermal management system” – ($25,000 MEDC; $25,000 match)
• Dr. Shorya Awtar, University of Michigan – “PRE-ACT: PREemptively Controlled ACTive Systems to Mitigate Motion Sickness I Autonomous Vehicles” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Winter 2020 Awardees

Awarded January 14, 2020

• Dr. Joan Dunbar, Wayne State University – “Validate and Commercialize Hybrid Magnesium Cement” – ($7,000 MEDC; $7,000 match)
• Dr. Sonali Kurup, Ferris State University – “Small Molecule EGFR/AURK Inhibitors for Multi-resistant Lung Cancer” – ($23,609 MEDC; $23,609 match)
• Dr. Aljoscha Roch, Michigan State University – “Material Development for Advanced Fused Filament Fabrication” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Awarded March 30, 2020

• Dr. Changyong Cao, Michigan State University – “Novel Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Powering Wireless Sensors by Harvesting Wave Energy” – ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Awarded March 31, 2020

• Dr. Daniel Cooper, University of Michigan – “Squeeze Cutting: A Cutting Tool That Produces Easy to Recycle Chips” – ($25,000 MEDC; $25,000 match)
• Dr. Marina Tanasova, Michigan Technological University – “Next Generation Probe for Fructose-Specific Transporters”- ($11,000 MEDC; $11,000 match)
• Dr. Carl Boehlert, Michigan State University – “Optimizing the Thermomechanical Treatment on Patented Titanium-Chromium Alloys for Targeted Industrial Applications” – ($25,000 MEDC; $25,000 match)

Fall 2019 Awardees

Awarded September 30, 2019

• Dr. Federica Brandizzi, Michigan State University, – “Improvement of Crop Nutritional Value and Growth through Enhancement of Essential Amino Acid Levels” – $40,000 ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Awarded November 13, 2019

• Dr. Muhammad Rabnawaz, Michigan State University, – “Dirt-Free Coatings for Solar Panels and Sensors” – $41,654 ($20,827 MEDC; $20,827 match)
• Dr. Nicholas A. Kotov, University of Michigan, – “Materials and Surface Texture Sensing LIDAR Prototype for Recycling Robotics” – $40,000 ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Summer 2019 Awardees

Awarded June 28, 2019

• Dr. Muhammad Rabnawaz, Michigan State University – “Food Safe Water-and-Soil-Repellent Paper Substrates for Food Packaging” – $37,812 ($18,906 MEDC; $18,905 match)
• Dr. Haseung Chung and Dr. Patrick Kwon, Michigan State University – “Magnetic-field Assisted Finishing (MAF) Using Exfoliated Graphite Nanoplatelets (xGnP) for Finishing Reel to Reel Sheet Metal Project” – $40,000 ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)
• Dr. Corey Stephenson, University of Michigan – “Development and Evaluation of Novel Fungicidal Succinate Dehydrogenase Inhibitors” – $25,000 ($12,500 MEDC; $12,500 match)

Awarded July 22, 2019

• Dr. Matthew Ross, Western Michigan University – “Cash ‘n’ Career Commercialization” – $40,000 ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Spring 2019 Awardees

Awarded March 17, 2019

• Dr. Andrew Tai, University of Michigan – “Interrupting Transmission of Multiple Flaviviruses Using an Engineered Viral NS1 Protein” – $70,792 ($35,396 MEDC; $35,396 match)

Awarded April 30, 2019

• Dr. David Douches, Michigan State University – ”Over-coming Self-incompatibility in Diploid Potatoes by CRISPR/Cas9 knock-out of HT” – $40,000 ($20,000 MEDC; $20,000 match)

Fall 2018 Awardees

Awarded August 14, 2018

• Dr. Timothy Scott, University of Michigan – “Multi-Wavelength Irradiation System for Ultra Rapid Additive Manufacturing” – $57,920 ($28,960 MEDC; $28,960 match)

Awarded September 5, 2018

• Dr. Ann Chapleau and Dr. Jennifer Harrison, Western Michigan University – “Goal Attainment Scaling: A Mobile App Solution” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)

Awarded October 5, 2018

• Dr. Steven Cundiff, University of Michigan – “High Speed, User-friendly Optical Spectroscopy for Mixtures” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
• Dr. Mojtaba Akhavan-Tafti, University of Michigan – “Autonomous Electromagnetic Energy Converter” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
• Dr. Sherif El-Tawil, University of Michigan – “High Performance Steel Fibers for Ultra High Performance Concrete” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)

Summer 2018 Awardees

Awarded May 31, 2018

• Dr. Timothy Grotjohn, Michigan State University – “Reducing the Production Cost of Diamond Substrates for Gemstone, Optical and Electronic Uses” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
• Dr. Erik Shapiro, Michigan State University – “Clinically Viable Magnetic Particles (SLIPs) for MRI-based Cell Tracking” – $60,122 ($30,061 MEDC; $30,061 match)

Awarded June 20, 2018

• Dr. Muralidhar Ghantasala, Western Michigan University – “Torque Sensing for Automotive Applications” – $30,000 ($15,000 MEDC; $15,000 match)
• Dr. John Walton, Michigan State University – “Novel Method to Make Bicyclic Peptides for Agricultural and Pharmaceutical Applications” – $76,734 ($38,367 MEDC; $38,367 match)
• Dr. Aloke Dutta, Wayne State University – “In Vivo Screening of Potential Neuroprotective Compounds by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technique” – $11,250 ($5,635 MEDC; $5,625 match)

Awarded August 7, 2018

• Dr. Zhaojian Li, Michigan State University – “Cloud-Based Driving Monitoring and Analytics” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
• Dr. John Patten, Western Michigan University – “Laser Augmented Diamond Drilling” – $8,000 ($4,000 MEDC; $4,000 match)
• Dr. Scott Wagner, Michigan Technological University – “Self-Lubricating Bearing Prototype Using Novel Friction Stir Powder Metallurgy Process” – $25,000 ($12,500 MEDC; $12,500 match)
• Dr. Ann Chapleau, Western Michigan University – “Goal Attainment Scaling: A Mobile App Solution” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)

Awarded August 16, 2018

• Dr. Prem Chahal, Michigan State University – “Laser Assisted Growth of SiC Devices on Sapphire Substrates” – $56,648 ($28,324 MEDC; $28,324 match)
• Dr. Qi Hua Fan, Michigan State University – “Development of Scalable Linear Ion Sources for Thin Film Processing” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
• Dr. Mikhail Redko, Michigan State University – “Streamlined Synthesis of Sweeteners from a Novel Method to Delignify Biomass” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)

Spring 2018 Awardees

Awarded, January 25, 2018

• Dr. Chinedum Okwudire, The University of Michigan – “Boosting Speed and precision of Desktop 3D Printers via Software-based Vibration Compensation” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
  “We have developed an entirely software-based vibration compensation technique that allows up to 2x faster printing without causing surface waviness or registration errors. The technology enables faster, more precise and more reliable 3D printing.”
• Dr. Merritt DeLano-Taylor, Grand Valley State University – “PM-Nato3, A Novel Tool to Generate Dopamine Neurons in Human Stem Cells” – $51,050 ($25,535 MEDC; $25,535 match)
  “PM-Nato3 is a novel polypeptide tool that promises to replace use of costly reagents and simplify the conversion of human stem cells (HSC) into dopamine (DA) neurons. DA neurons are lost in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and affected in schizophrenia and other disorders, and therapeutics in this realm represent a growing market of 6.7 Billion USD.”

Awarded, March 8, 2018

• Dr. Zhiqiang Cao, Wayne State University – “Durable Super-Hydrophilic Fouling-Resistant Marine Coating” – $15,000 ($7,500 MEDC: $7,500 match)
  “This technology and the resulting product will be the first generation of the marine fouling-resistant coating. It is a combination of hydrophilic hydrogel and commercial glue, which can be easily applied to both cargo ships and leisure vessels by either professional shipyards or DIY enthusiasts. It overcomes the disadvantages of current fouling-release marine coatings and greatly improves the marine bio-fouling resistant capability.”
• Dr. Daniel Kujawski, Western Michigan University – “Fatigue Property of Materials & Components Using Multi-Scale Hardness Data” – $49,892 ($24,946 MEDC; $24,946 match)
  “This project will improve the prediction of the fatigue properties of materials. The methodology will reduce the cost of providing designers with material properties throughout the lifecycle of manufactured parts. The technique promises higher reliability from non-destructive testing and analysis.”
• Dr. Emin Kutay, Michigan State University – “Developing Customer-Ready Software for Analysis and Design of Asphalt Pavements Constructed with Traditional and Advanced Materials” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
  “This project will develop a user-ready software program to be used by civil engineers designing asphalt pavements using traditional and advanced materials under regional conditions.”

Fall 2017 Awardees

Awarded, August 23, 2017

• Dr. Gregory Swain, Michigan State University – “Next Generation Exhaled Breath Analyzer for Nitric Oxide and Peroxynitrite” – $44,000 ($22,000 MEDC; $22,000 match)
  “This project will develop prototype electrodes and related sensor apparatus for medical detection. The electrodes and sensors incorporate electrically conducing diamond to provide a detection platform. Use of these sensors will detect trace elements in exhaled breath for diagnosis and monitoring of lung-related conditions.”
• Dr. Eric Nybo, Ferris State University – “A Novel Metabolic Engineering Platform for Production of Anthracyclinones” – $61,000 ($30,500 MEDC; $30,500 match)
  “The invention provides for genetically engineered antinomycetes that produce novel anthracyclinone and anthracycline drug molecules useful for chemical starting materials, antibiotics, or anticancer agents.”
• Dr. Massood Atashbar, Western Michigan University – “Impact Sensor and Rigid-flex Readout Electronic System” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
  “This project aims to develop an impact sensor and rigid-flex readout electronics system, which helmet manufacturers can use in existing helmets to automatically record and communicate the occurrence of potentially dangerous impacts; thus reducing the chance of inaccurate judgments.”

Awarded, October 10, 2017

• Dr. Andre Bachman, Michigan State University – “TIR199: A Novel Proteasome Inhibitor” – $80,000 ($40,000 MEDC; $40,000 match)
  “TIR-199 is a structural analog of the naturally occurring bacterial proteasome inhibitors called syrbactin. It is an excellent candidate as a new and improved proteasome inhibitor with high efficacy and high specificity.”
• Dr. Pavel Ikonomov, Western Michigan University – “3D Metal Device and Process” – $69,970 ($34,985 MEDC; $34,985 match)
  “This technology allows customers to eliminate the additional steps and costs of machining parts on separate stations. Machining immediately after each layer of metal is deposited enables the manufacture of 3D printed parts with complex geometries without using support structures required with existing 3D printing technologies.”