We are pleased to announce that eight researchers from the University of Fribourg have been awarded our new Proof-of-Concept grants in recognition of their innovative ideas. These grants play a vital role in facilitating the transition to the market, allowing researchers to demonstrate the applicability of their inventions for future Innosuisse or Bridge grants applications.

Our congratulations go to: Dr. Mout de Vrieze and Dr. Ora Hazak (Biology), Dr. Jules Valentin and Prof. Stefan Salentinig (Chemistry), Dr. Sofia Magkiriadou and Prof. Guillermo Acuna (Physics), Dr. Lucas Spierer (Neuroscience), and Prof. Curzio Rüegg (Oncology).

The upcoming deadlines for UNIFR Proof of Concept grants are:

Research pool: July 31st (ranging from CHF 7,000 to CHF 70,000)
Fond du centenaire: September 1st (maximum of CHF 7,000)

We encourage to apply and should you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Knowledge and Technology Transfer team at techtransfer@unifr.ch.

Exciting advancement in breast cancer detection by Prof. Rüegg

We are thrilled to share a significant development in the field of breast cancer research led by Prof. Rüegg. His team is currently working on a first-in-class blood test for the early detection of breast cancer and active monitoring post cancer treatment. In addition to receiving the UNIFR Proof of Concept grant, their innovative research project was honoured with the Best Innovation Project prize at the BioInnovation Day 2023 held in Lausanne in May.

Furthermore, we are delighted to announce that the ISREC foundation has exceptionally extended their support by two additional years, allowing Prof. Rüegg's team to complete their crucial clinical studies.

With the lead of Dr. Ivana Domljanovic the team has also secured an Innosuisse grant to further advance the development of A rapid blood test for breast cancer detection using a nanosensor technology.

We are proud to support Prof. Rüegg's groundbreaking work in the field of breast cancer diagnostics, and we eagerly anticipate the next steps in this remarkable journey.