Hardware design for PathoBox

Our company is developing crop disease testing devices for farmers and agronomists. With our prototype development nearing completion, we are looking to optimize the electronic schematics of our device to ensure it is robust and effective in diverse agricultural environments. There are two different options based on student's skillset and their interests. Option #1 Students will engage in a detailed and hands-on hardware development process under the mentorship of PathoScan’s scientific lead. Their tasks will include: Learn and analyze PathoScan's hardware schematics for design effectiveness. Convert digital schematics into a physical prototype of the PathoBox device. Conduct testing on the prototype and identify areas for refinement. Present a final report and prototype demonstration to PathoScan founders. Option #2 Students will engage in conducting market analysis and market research in of the existing industry and the ways to market PathoBox design. The student's goal will be to figure out the design decisions we need to make for achieving a great product-market fit.

Cell Culturing and Sequencing

The objective of this project is for the learner to isolate a fungal or bacterial pathogen from an infected plant sample (BSL-1). This sample has been provided by one of our curious clients. The learner will then use universal target sequencing (ITS, 16S, CPN60, etc.) on a nanopore to identify the causative pathogen.

Pathoscan Field Trial Success

The goal of this project is to ensure that Pathoscan can have a successful 2025 field trail by optimizing our Pathobox production process using hands-on experience. It is ideal for teams of learners participating in an interdisciplinary studies such as InterD or Global Challenges classes. This will allow students to learn how point of collection testing works from a holistic perspective. There will be two members of the team: Laboratory Manager: The laboratory manager will be responsible for processing the outstanding samples delivered by our clients under the direction and supervision of Proxima R&D. In this role, the student will have hands on experience with our partners at Proxima R&D laboratories in microbial techniques including PCR and qPCR. These samples are not mission critical, and are intended to serve as a quality control mechanism that the Pathobox Manager will use to ensure that the Pathobox is functional. Pathobox Manager: In this experience, the student will learn how to assemble electronics components with hands-on experience so that they can optimize the assembly process of the Pathobox. If interested, the student can also learn how to use FDM manufacturing technologies.