BREATHE Teaming Profiles
Thank you for showing an interest in ARPA-H’s Building Resilient Environments for Air and Total HEalth (BREATHE) program. This page is designed to help facilitate connections between prospective proposers. If either you or your organization are interested in teaming, please submit your information via the form below. Your details will then be added to the list below, which is publicly available.
Uniquely, BREATHE requires performers to form teams to achieve the goals of the program. Prospective performers are encouraged to form teams with varied technical expertise to submit a proposal to the BREATHE solicitation.
Please note that by publishing the teaming profiles list, ARPA-H is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals or organizations included here. Submissions to the teaming profiles list are reviewed and updated periodically.
Interested in learning more about the BREATHE program?
- Read the BREATHE draft Solicitation.
- Register to attend the hybrid Proposers’ Day on May 2, 2024.
- See the BREATHE program overview page.
Teaming Profiles List
To narrow the results in the Teaming Profiles List, please use the input below to filter results based on your search term. The list will filter as you type.
| Organization | Point of Contact | Point of contact email | Provide an additional point of contact for your organization's representative (email only) | City and state of your organization | In 200 words or less, describe your organization's current research focus area | In 200 words or less, tell us what your organization is looking for in potential teaming partners | Which technical areas within BREATHE does your organization have the capacity to address? |
| Drizzle Health | Digvijay Singh, CEO | digvijay@drizzlehealth.com | Baltimore, MD | This vision of future is exactly what we've been advocating for - a move towards large-scale public diagnostics as opposed to personalized ones. We even just submitted our concept for exactly this in the recent ARPA-H BAA. Essentially, current molecular diagnostic systems cannot be utilized in largescale surveillance such as those for indoor air quality due to reagents use per test, as well as their inherent non-real time nature. This problem also presents in food and water testing where volumes are inherently large (opposite to personalized genomic diagnostics). We're building cheap sampling systems to selectively concentrate bacteria from large sample volumes, and a real-time label free imaging systems that use machine learning on optical scattering data to solve exactly this. In fact for Tuberculosis, we showed our sampling system increases performance of microscopy from 50% to over 90% in real patient samples, at a fraction of PCR costs! These systems have diagnostic use in global health, remote and rural health diagnostics, food and water safety testing, and are/being designed for scalability especially in lower-middle income countries and communities. We're really excited that moving to a preventative model of diagnostics is a priority. | We're looking for companies that already have some product in technical areas 2 and 3, are preferably based in the US, and understand the vision of BREATH as a priority. We're a small company, and our cutting edge products are experimental - ideal partners would be flexible to allow for iterations, and help lead ARPA-H's PRD. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| e-sens | Brian Cummings, President | bcummings@e-sens.com | alalonde@e-sens.com | Salt Lake City, Utah | We specialize in fully automated, state-of-the-art drinking water, waste water, and air quality quantitative monitoring using proprietary silicon-based sensors and microfluidics to revolutionize the current state of quality testing. | At e-sens, we understand the importance of collaboration and integration of cross-disciplinary teams to create revolutionary technology to disrupt the status-quo. We are looking for partners that can assist in sensor-to-software integration, as well as engineers and chemists that can translate chemical sensors into biosensors. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Detect-ION | Ashish Chaudhary, Founder/CTO/CEO | ashish.chaudhary@detect-ion.com | Spiros.manolakos@detect-ion.com | Tampa, Florida | Detect-ION is a Deep-Tech startup founded in October 2021 and develops sensors and systems in a dedicated state-of-the-art 4000 sqft laboratory located in Tampa, FL. We thrive in solving hard, high-value detection problems that require a multidisciplinary effort at the intersection of organic chemistry, biochemistry, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, vacuum technology, data analytics, low power electronics, system engineering and AI/ML algorithm to innovate the most pioneering sensing capabilities driven by mission-specific requirements from the US government and the industry. | We are looking for partners in TA-2 and TA-3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Binghamton University | Chuan-Jian Zhong, Professor | cjzhong@binghamton.edu | Binghamton, New York | Chemical sensors, biosensors, electronic noses, electrochemical sensors, spectroscopic sensors, SERS sensors, chemirestrsitve sensors, QCM sensors, air quality sensors, breath sensors, | microfabrication, field testing, bio-safety lab testing, optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air, developing respiratory risk assessment software | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| EBTRON, Inc. | Darryl DeAngelis, Director of Business Development | DarrylD@ebtron.com | lhickey@ebtron.com | Loris, SC | EBTRON has been focused on HVAC airflow measurement for over 40 years. We were the first to measure airflows in the built environment using thermal dispersion technology. We are the only solution provider to use individually calibrated bead-in-glass thermistors as the basis of measurement. Each airflow node is individually calibrated up to 16 points to a NIST traceable standard within +/-2% of reading and +/-0.08°C, providing mass and volumetric measurement. This unique solution provides an array of individual flow and temperature measuring points with industry leading accuracy in a package that provides long term stability and no further calibration. We are the only solution that uses velocity weighting of our average temperature measurement and have incorporated humidity and barometric pressure for a patented solution. We have several solutions with multiple data acquisition methods, including a bi-directional bleed sensor that can measure small pressure differentials as low as 0.05Pa. EBTRON promotes IAQ in the built environment through industry education, standards development, and publicly supporting programs such as the Clean Air in Buildings Challenge, Efficient and Healthy Schools program, Healthy Buildings 2021 and Indoor Air 2024. | EBTRON is looking to partner on a team that understands that buildings and their HVAC systems are complex, have many interactions, and are under constant change. Understanding the fate and transport of bioaerosols are directly impacted by mechanical HVAC systems; that dynamic changes external and internal to a building or between spaces interact with the HVAC system; that interaction between HVAC systems or other external or internal forces can cause instability to operation; that conditioning a space, maintaining pressurization control, and avoiding unplanned airflows requires ongoing measurement and control of individual system airflows. It is important to also understand that operators can make changes that can inadvertently impact the performance of the HVAC system and without adequate sensed parameters, may go undetected and result in the failure to provide a healthy space. Additionally, as degradation within a system occurs, it is essential to trend changes of the rate of airflow, temperature, or moisture within the systems for both preemptive corrective action and fault detection. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Building4Health, Inc. | Stephanie Taylor, MD, CEO | stephanie@b4hinc.com | peter@b4hinc.com | Stowe, VT | We have developed a medically based, health index for airborne exposures within the existing thermal environment. Our index reflects the short and long term physiological impact of both individual and combined air constituents. To implement our index to protect occupant health, we measure indoor and outdoor thermal conditions and contaminant concentrations, analyze the health impact, report findings and recommend remediation prompts when the indoor index is suboptimal. Because we monitor both indoor air and outdoor air, we give the most effective and energy efficient indoor air quality improvement recommendations. | We need a partner to tie our indoor air remediation prompts to the building automation system. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| UGA | Kenan Song, Associate Professor | kenan.song@uga.edu | ks62267@uga.edu | Athens, GA | Kenan Song's research can significantly contribute to the development of indoor air biosensors through his expertise in advanced materials, microfluidics, and sensor technology. Here’s how his work could support the advancements in this area: Microfluidics Integration: Kenan Song's experience in microfluidics can be pivotal in designing compact, efficient bioaerosol-sensing devices. Microfluidic technologies allow for precise manipulation of small fluid volumes, essential for capturing and analyzing airborne biological particles. By integrating microfluidic systems with biosensing technologies, Song can help develop devices that autonomously monitor indoor air, efficiently capturing and directing aerosols to detection chambers. Advanced Material Application: Utilizing advanced materials to enhance sensor sensitivity and selectivity is another area where Song’s research shines. Materials with high surface area, reactivity, or specific affinity to biological substances can improve the capture efficiency and detection fidelity of bioaerosol sensors. Song’s work with nanoporous materials or functionalized surfaces can lead to the development of coatings or components within bioaerosol sensors that are specifically tailored to trap and detect pathogens and allergens more effectively. Sensor Development and Miniaturization: Song's background in sensor development and additive manufacturing (such as 3D printing) can be leveraged to create miniaturized devices that are capable of housing sophisticated sensing mechanisms in a compact form. This is crucial for the practical deployment of indoor air biosensors in diverse environments. The ability to produce components on a micro-scale using 3D printing can also reduce the cost and complexity of sensor manufacturing, facilitating wider deployment. Multiplexed Detection Systems: Kenan Song’s expertise in developing multiplexed systems could be instrumental in creating sensors that can detect multiple types of pathogens and allergens simultaneously. His approach could involve the integration of various sensor modalities within a single device to provide comprehensive monitoring capabilities. Emerging Technologies for Enhanced Diagnostics: Exploring the integration of molecular diagnostics techniques, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplification or CRISPR-based methods, into microfluidic devices could further enhance the capabilities of indoor air biosensors. These technologies would allow for not only detecting but also quantifying and even identifying unknown biological particles based on genetic information. In summary, Kenan Song's research can substantially advance the field of indoor air biosensors by applying his expertise in microfluidics, advanced materials, and sensor technology to develop innovative, effective, and multiplexed bioaerosol-sensing devices. This aligns well with the goals of monitoring and improving indoor air quality through the detection of pathogens and allergens. | Molecular Biologists: Expertise in genetic and molecular diagnostic techniques, such as PCR, RT-PCR, and CRISPR-based biosensors. This expertise is essential for incorporating molecular diagnostics into the biosensors to identify and quantify pathogens and allergens. Bioengineers: Specialization in integrating biological components with engineering systems, is crucial for designing and optimizing the interfaces where biological samples interact with detection technologies within the device. Chemical Engineers: Experience in aerosol technology and fluid dynamics to improve the capture and processing of airborne particles. Chemical engineers can also contribute to the development of materials and coatings that enhance particle capture efficiency and specificity. Public Health Experts: Provide insights into the most significant pathogens and allergens to monitor, based on public health priorities. Their knowledge helps in tailoring the biosensor development to meet real-world needs and regulatory requirements. Regulatory and Compliance Specialists: Important for navigating the complex regulatory landscape of medical and environmental devices to ensure that the biosensors meet all necessary standards and approvals before they can be deployed. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| University of Maryland-Biology | Joshua Weitz, Professor of Biology and Clark Leadership Chair in Data Analytics | jsweitz@umd.edu | College Park, Maryland | Joshua S. Weitz is a Professor of Biology at the University of Maryland where he holds the Clark Leadership Chair in Data Analytics and is the author of the forthcoming book "Asymptomatic: The Silent Spread of COVID-19 and the Future of Pandemics" (Johns Hopkins University Press, forthcoming October 2024). The Weitz group works to understand how viruses transform human and environmental health. The team's work on epidemic dynamics focuses on developing quantitative models of respiratory disease dynamics, including modeling asymptomatic transmission, integrating behaviour into epidemic models, developing quantitative and localized epidemic risk estimates, and evaluating the impact of interventions. The Weitz group also has extensive experience in ecological modeling, including characterizing microbial diversity and interactions in complex networks of viruses and their microbial hosts. | We are seeking to collaborate with engineers and bioaerosol experts on integrated solutions to assess microbial & viral complexity in indoor air, develop early indicators associated with potential pathogen transmission, design feedback-control methods to optimize indoor air quality, and improve communication with policy makers, design teams, and the public to increase the effectiveness of integrated design strategies. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| airCoda LLC | Pierre Wellner, Founder | pierre@pierrewellner.com | https://www.aircoda.com/ | Personal indoor air quality monitoring and analysis using networks of wearable sensors, and cellphone apps. | Partners that need software development, including apps and machine learning. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| GenEndeavor LLC | Suresh Panthee, Scientist | supanthee@genendeavor.com | Hayward CA | Aerosol transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is a potential major route for the spread of COVID-19 disease. Yet current safety guidelines only address contact and near-contact transmission. Without any measures in place to adequately prevent airborne SARS-CoV-2 infection and transmission, an air monitoring system is needed. Our current focus is to design and develop a real-time air sensing system to monitor SARS-CoV-2 in aerosols. | We are looking for someone with expertise on TA2 and TA3 | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| University of Minnesota | Jiarong Hong, Professor | jhong@umn.edu | bravo095@umn.edu | Minneapolis, MN | At the University of Minnesota, our laboratory is dedicated to advancing sensor technology for airborne pathogen detection, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Our work integrates these sensors with computational fluid dynamics and deep learning to assess infection risks within indoor environments. We are at the forefront of employing deep learning-based holographic imaging to enhance pathogen detection and indoor monitoring. Furthermore, we utilize numerical simulations for comprehensive indoor infection risk assessment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, our lab conducted extensive research through collaborations with diverse groups such as the Minnesota Orchestra, dental clinics, Ford, public schools, and more. This work aimed to evaluate environmental risks and develop practical solutions for risk mitigation across various settings, including restaurants, supermarkets, elevators, wind instrument performances, classrooms, and subways. | Our lab at the University of Minnesota is in search of public health strategists and environmental systems engineers skilled in the design and implementation of health-focused building systems. These partnerships will exploit our cutting-edge sensor technologies to innovate in the area of risk mitigation for indoor environments. We are also eager to collaborate with virologists and environmental biologists to enhance our pathogen detection capabilities. Ideal collaborators will bring deep expertise in bioaerosol dynamics, molecular bioengineering, and indoor environmental quality assessment. Together, we aim to develop integrated, adaptive solutions that align with the ARPA-H BREATHE program’s objectives of improving indoor air quality and mitigating respiratory health risks. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Product Creation Studio | Scott Thielman, Chief Technology Officer | scott@productcreationstudio.com | Seattle, WA | Product Creation Studio (PCS) is at the forefront of integrating multi-domain technologies into commercial product designs, specifically focusing on enhancing air quality management systems. We have research experience with electrostatic filtration, UV purification, and advanced sensor technologies, all tailored to create intuitive and effective user interfaces. This integrated approach not only advances individual technologies but also ensures that the final products are robust, compliant, and superior in performance. Our extensive track record, including successful collaborations on market-ready environmental and healthcare products, positions us ideally for initiatives like the ARPA-H proposal, where our expertise in creating holistic, market-driven solutions is directly relevant and valuable. | Product Creation Studio (PCS) is seeking teaming partners who specialize in cutting-edge technologies and algorithms for air quality sensing, system management, and filtration/purification. Our ideal partners are innovators in their field, possessing advanced, pioneering technologies that can be integrated into commercial products. We are looking for collaborators who excel in the development of novel solutions that can significantly enhance system performance and efficiency. These partners should bring expertise that complements our capabilities in scaling, regulatory navigation, and commercial product development, enabling us to jointly deliver superior air quality management systems. Emphasizing collaboration, we aim to combine our strengths to create market-leading solutions that address critical environmental health challenges. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| CyClean, Inc. | Chase Hood, Co-Founder, CEO | chase@onecyclean.com | cchood@usc.edu | Buffalo Grove, IL | A public health operating system that continuously eliminates viruses and bacteria indoors by combining human-safe UV-C disinfection with biological aerosol monitoring for efficacy verification. | We are looking for a teaming partner to co-develop indoor air biosensors that can communicate with our smart filtered 222-nanometer Far UV-C disinfection devices for continuously disinfecting the air and surfaces. The indoor air biosensors will enable us to identify potential biological threats in the air and eliminate them with our filtered Far UV-C devices. We can create the first public health operating system that protects communities. Ideally, our partner would bring indoor air biosensor expertise, which can be used to develop an IoT-enabled biosensor solution rapidly deployable in built environments. Our human-safe UV-C disinfection device, combined with the indoor air biosensor, means we can effectively implement our patented software platform for reducing pathogenic bioburden. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Handix Scientific | Braden Stump, Director of Product & Business Development | bstump@handixscientific.com | pchen@handixscientific.com | Fort Collins, Colorado | Bioaerosol sampling is our primary area of expertise. Researchers using our products have shown high capability and efficiency in sampling viable (or genomically intact for techniques like pcr) virus, bacteria, etc. | We are most interested in team members that have biosensor expertise that can be performed on liquid or solid samples as we can concentrate room air into a more convenient sample, but have no biosensor analysis expertise. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| RAIsonance, Inc. | Paul McLenaghan, Chief Revenue Officer | paulm@raisonance.ai | Greenwood Village, CO | RAIsonance specializes in artificial intelligence-powered analysis of Forced Cough Vocalizations (FCVs) to achieve a range of health-related outcomes. As a signal, this intentional cough is a rich source of biometric and biomarker data that represents detectable features indicating changes or specific disease signatures. From this very data-rich signal, we are able to: • Diagnose specific diseases in ~90 seconds • Monitor, detect, and score both subtle and gross impacts to a given individual’s respiratory system that could result from exposure to pathogens, environmental toxins, pollution, chemical/biological agents, wildfire smoke, or any other potentially harmful threat Our technology architecture is completely digital. Our software-only approach to diagnostics and respiratory monitoring affords us numerous advantages over lab-based or hardware-based capabilities: • Our solutions are completely non-invasive; • Users only need a smart phone and an internet connection, eliminating the need for expensive testing infrastructure or specialized hardware and devices. • Cough sound submissions can be stored and used repeatedly with no degradation of quality; • We have no manufacturing costs, no production delays, no supply chain at risk of disruption, and no consumables creating waste; • Results from diagnostic tests or monitoring activity are available in under 2 minutes; • Our systems are incredibly scalable – at present we can process 20,000 tests per second. • All usage and results data can be easily integrated into any existing system or platform. | We are interested in incorporating our FCV analytics solutions into the BREATHE program as a method of identifying and measuring potential impacts to individuals that may be caused by poor indoor air quality and also act as an additional form of early-warning threat detection. Some additional information is below: RAIsonance has developed proprietary Forced Cough Vocalization (FCV) analysis technology that tracks impacts and resulting alterations to respiratory function. Our tools detect changes in an individual’s unique FCV using advanced audio processing, specialized feature extraction, machine learning, and proprietary artificial intelligence models and techniques. This specialized technology can identify minuscule, potentially high-risk changes that take place in an individual’s FCV by comparing current coughs to a baseline profile for that individual. Our AI engines are trained to identity these changes no matter what the cause: pathogen, environmental toxin, chemical exposure, or other harmful respiratory threats. While our FCV wellness solutions do not diagnose any conditions or distinguish between pathogens, toxins or chemical agents, they are designed to provide a fast, biometric, early-warning signal of a potential health issue for any user. Our AI-powered cough analytics solutions are ideally suited to enable individuals to check for any potential impacts from poor indoor air quality. Our "FCV Sentinel" solution gives individuals the ability to check their FCV Score on-demand and from anywhere by providing a few intentional coughs into a smartphone app. The solution does not require any sensors, hardware, or specialized devices other than their own smartphone. From the user-friendly mobile app, users can track their FCV Scores, log symptoms, and enter other vital signs. FCV Scores of multiple users within an organization can be aggregated and viewed via FCV Sentinel dashboards, or integrated directly into other monitoring platforms to give administrators an FCV Score view alongside other sensor data. When viewed at an aggregate level, unusual or sudden occurrences of multiple individuals all experiencing low FCV Scores can indicate a more systemic issue within the building itself that needs immediate investigation and possible remediation, such as the presence of an infectious disease or some toxins or chemicals or other hazardous substances in the air. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| University of Michigan | Xudong (Sherman) Fan, Professor | xsfan@umich.edu | Ann Arbor, Michigan | (1) Our lab developed novel automated and portable (~1 kg, small shoebox in size) comprehensive 2-dimensional gas chromatography (GC) device for rapid (~10 minutes) high resolution indoor air quality (volatile organic compounds - VOCs) analysis and aerosol analysis (after aerosol collection and evaporation) at a low cost (low ownership cost and low recurring cost) (2) By using our unique vapor detectors, our VOCs detection limit can reach <0.01 ppt (in 1 L of air sample). This would be very important to detect semi-VOCs that have persistent indoor emissions. (3) We are also conducting breath analysis (both hardware and algorithm) to track human health conditions over a long term. The same device in (1) and (2) can also be used for breath analysis. | We are looking for someone with expertise on TA2 and TA3 | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| NanoEngineering Corporation | Robert B. Dana , CEO | bob@nanoengineeringcorp.com | luis@nanoengineeringcorp.com | New Haven, Connecticut | NanoEngineering is a leader in particle sizing instrumentation and equipment. Our flagship product, NanoRanger, is a biosensor equivalent that detects and characterizes virus capsids for airborne pathogen detection, viral diagnostics, and biological drug development. NanoRanger incorporates high resolution differential mobility analysis (DMA), a proven method featuring unlimited-plex detection of aerosolized 1-250 nm particles in less than five minutes, that we have dramatically improved with Angstrom scale resolution. NanoRanger exhibits excellent specificity and, uniquely, detects novel pathogens by comparing their unique size signature to background/ambient signal. It is configured for future automated, unattended operation and requires no expensive consumables. NanoRanger is fully digital and well positioned for integration with other biosensors, risk assessment software and building controls. Our current research focus includes upgrading our instrument for automated, hands-free operation; expanding the number of viruses tested to prove our ability to identify virus species based on their size signature; and improving limits of detection. Leveraging our experience in aerosol science and engineering, we propose to extend our current focus to include a novel, physics-based technology for high throughput separation of room air particles from 1nm to 10 µm for downstream classification. | We are engineers with strong backgrounds in aerosol sciences. To implement the project goals we favor a modular architecture connected by innovative initial collection and separation of air samples based on our design innovations. Furthermore, our DMA-based detector is well suited for viral pathogens. We need teammates to fulfill the BREATHE vision. We seek partners in risk assessment software, building systems, biosensor technologies for bacteria and spores/allergens, and other orthogonal and complementary technologies. We firmly believe that the best proposals will incorporate multiple solutions to the most challenging biosensor-related scientific and engineering challenges in order to de-risk the scientific challenges via parallel efforts using both biological and physics-based approaches. We want to partner with individuals and organizations that are open minded, public health oriented, and adequately resourced. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| University of Michigan | Xudong (Sherman) Fan, Professor | xsfan@umich.edu | Ann Arbor, Michigan | 1. My lab has developed automated, portable (1 kg, small shoebox in size) comprehensive 2-dimensional gas chromatography (GC) that can provide rapid (~10 minutes), low-cost (low ownership cost and low recurring cost), field/indoor-deployable capabilities for analyzing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-VOCs (persistent long-term indoor emissions), and pathogens/aerosols (after evaporation) with excellent chromatographic resolution. 2. Coupled with our unique semiconductor gas detector, an unprecedented high sensitivity (better than 0.01 ppt in 1 L air sample) can be achieved. 3. We have also conducted extensive breath analysis studies to detect and track disease and health conditions of human subjects using the portable GC devices. Algorithms based on AI and machine learning have also been developed. | We are looking for partners in TA-2 and TA-3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| XCMR, Inc. | XCMR, Inc., CEO | r@xcmr.co | jwhyte@xcmr.co | Greater Philadelphia, PA | XCMR is a MedTech company focused on developing Next-Generation UVC technologies for reducing the risk of infectious disease transmission. Our Electromagnetic Energy for Infection Transmission Resiliency (EMITR)™ platform leverages ‘connected’ devices, incorporating data and sensor fusion to enhance scaled infection transmission resiliency, while harnessing directed UVC energy in human-safe devices. The platform is designed to be deployed in various physical form factors, e.g., upper room GUV and near-field infection protection (NIP) devices. For the latter example, XCMR’s bold vision is to develop Maskless Protection Technology (MPT) leveraging directed UVC energy to revolutionize respiration protection paradigms and eliminate encumbrances of physical mask designs and technology. We believe such a multi-layered approach is a more cost-effective means to improving biosafety efficacy and energy efficiency in built environments than current technologies involving mechanical ventilation and filtration. XCMR has assembled a world-class multidisciplinary science and business team, been awarded 6 government contracts totaling $2.7 million, raised $1.7 million SAFE, formalized contractual partnerships with (8) leading commercial organizations and (4) academic research institutions, and filed 9 worldwide patents with first awarded in October 2023. | Our academic partners have extensive experience in working with biological challenge agents to quantify UVC inactivation of aerosolized and surface pathogens, as well as leading academic research into Far-UVC and its uses. Whereas other intervention technologies have been implemented statically, the EMITR supported devices will be designed to adapt to dynamic conditions, such as intermittent occupancy, times of elevated infection risk (flu season), and specific pathogen vulnerability. Ideal partners would include organizations that have the ability to develop and/or integrate software, devices and data to an IoT cloud infrastructure to support a bio-surveillance system of record with real-time data and sensor fusion from various dynamic sources, to contribute to a vast network of connected smart MPT devices working together to create an invisible protective barrier to reduce the incidence of respiratory infection transmission and mitigate the risk of future pandemics. XCMR, together with our academic, commercial and US Government partners, is uniquely qualified to lead the development of such a hybrid digital/physical ecosystem as a resilient countermeasure to the ever-increasing risk of airborne biological threats. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Triple Ring Technologies, Inc. | Roger Tang, PhD, CTO | rtang@tripleringtech.com | shemami@tripleringtech.com | Newark, California | We strive to be the most trusted partner for developing science-driven products in medtech, life sciences, and sustainability. In this role, we choose fulfilling problems, take on significant challenges, pull together diverse teams, collaborate fearlessly, and have a positive impact on people and the planet. To accomplish this vision, Triple Ring Technologies has assembled an interdisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, developers, and designers (25% with PhDs) that specializes in accelerating technologies up the TRL scale. For our clients, we ensure that technology will perform as desired when it needs to, and that their projects will achieve key milestones (be it performance or funding). We serve as a contractor providing services, or as a commercialization partner for early-stage technology for which proof-of-concept has been achieved by an academic/research laboratory. Services include but are not limited to, basic technology development, robust implementation of proof-of-concept results, prototype design and build for clinical use, and design for manufacturing. We are fully ISO 13485 certified. We have direct experience in developing systems for gas (breath-based) diagnostics (for example https://www.tripleringtech.com/case-studies/cannabis-breathalyzer-system/). We believe this expertise is broadly applicable to all gas detection systems, including those for assessing indoor air quality. | We stand side-by-side with innovators and entrepreneurs to solve hard problems, launch breakthrough products, and create new businesses. We can provide the concept realization and technology development for FDA submission, clinical testing, and/or commercialization. We can start with just a concept (even just an idea); at the other end of the TRL scale, we can design or redesign for manufacturing or for FDA submission. Teaming partners would bring medical expertise, building systems experience, or other technologies required, and big ideas that are not constrained by what they think is limiting in today’s technology. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| U.S. General Services Administration | Brian Gilligan, Acting Director, Office of Federal High-Performance Green Buildings | brian.gilligan@gsa.gov | kevin.powell@gsa.gov | Washington, DC | GSA's Office of Federal High-Performance Green Buildings seeks to expand field research supporting ventilation strategies that improve the health, comfort and performance of federal employees and customters. The Emerging Building Technologies Program at GSA's Public Buildings Service is designed to test high-performance buildings technologies that improve federal missions and improve operational efficiency. Together these two programs will evaluate approaches to implement ASHRAE Standard 241 and test the air cleaning technologies involved in an existing building in GSA's portfolio. | Expertise in sensor technology that can monitor biological contaminants or proxies for efficacy of buildings systems in removing or neutralizing such contaminants and integration with existing building management and automated fault detection systems. GSA would like to align this work with responding to emerging requirements for control of infectious aerosols including ASHRAE Standard 241. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| University of Illinois at Chicago - Air Microfluidics and Biosurveliance Group | Igor Paprotny, Yes | paprotny@uic.edu | caffrey@uic.edu | Chicago, IL | The Air-Microfluidic and Bio-surveillance Group (AMBG) is a research consortium that focuses on detection and speciation of airborne pathogens and other pollutants. Our technology includes microfluidic concentration, deposition, and detection of bioaerosols, mainly using variations of highly optimized nucleic acid amplification (NAA) techniques combined with MEMS/microfluidic circuits. Our specialty is pathogen-specific and pathogen-agnostic NAA from air. In parallel, we are commercializing our technology through a startup called bioAerium (https://www.bioaerium.com/) with several patents (pending). | We are looking to: 1) team up with federal organizations or entities in order to apply our technologies for domestic bio-surveillance, i.e. to strengthen national security and help to prevent the next pandemic; 2) team up with commercial entities to help commercialize our bio-surveillance technology; 3) team up with research partners to further delve into the science of airborne pathogen detection for a number of different applications. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Applied Research Associates | Jeffry Schroeter, Senior Scientist | jschroeter@ara.com | Raleigh, NC | Our research focus area is the development of mathematical models and software platforms to facilitate inhalation risk assessments of hazardous materials, including aerosols and particulates. Our multidisciplinary team is comprised of engineers, physicists, aerosol scientists, mathematicians, programmers, and computational biologists. We have developed respiratory risk assessment software for government health agencies, including the EPA and FDA, to estimate inhaled exposure concentrations, lung deposition, and exposure-dose-response relationships for inhaled chemical and biological agents. Specific examples of our research and software development for respiratory risk assessment include development of the Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry (MPPD) model used by inhalation toxicologists and risk assessors to evaluate lung dosimetry, applications for the EPA to estimate risk from air pollutant exposure, evaluation of the efficiency of air treatment technologies on airborne virus particles, and software to evaluate human health risks from tobacco product constituents. | We are looking for partners primarily for TA1. Given our focus on TA2 (Respiratory Risk Assessment Software), we anticipate partnering with organizations that develop bioaerosol sensors. This collaboration will ensure tight integration of sensor technologies with the modeling techniques implemented in the software applications. Based on our experience partnering with other organizations focused on experimental work and laboratory studies, we recognize that these complementary skillsets support an interdisciplinary approach that will lead to the successful execution of challenging research undertakings for the BREATHE program. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| Nanobiosym | Dr. Anita Goel, MD, PhD, Chairman and CEO | agoel@nanobiosym.com | info@nanobiosym.com | Cambridge, MA | We have capabilities to contribute to Technical Areas 1 and 2- including our work with DARPA, DOD, NASA, USAID, DOE, NSF and XPRIZE and getting FDA EUA approvals demonstrating and validating advanced nanobiosensors for ultrasensitive molecular detection and also the ability to aggregate data and perform advanced AI and other data analytics from multiple field deployed devices like in our work with the FDA Digital Diagnostics Program. We are keen to partner with folks Technical Area 3 as well as other forms of detection and data analytics that could be complementary to our capabilities | We have capabilities to contribute to Technical Areas 1 and 2- including our work with DARPA, DOD, NASA, USAID, DOE, NSF and XPRIZE and getting FDA EUA approvals demonstrating and validating advanced nanobiosensors for ultrasensitive molecular detection and also the ability to aggregate data and perform advanced AI and other data analytics from multiple field deployed devices like in our work with the FDA Digital Diagnostics Program. We are keen to partner with folks Technical Area 3 as well as other forms of detection and data analytics that could be complementary to our capabilities | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Gate Scientific Inc | Kris Scaboo, President/CTO | ks@gatescientific.com | sr@gatescientific.com | Milpitas, CA | Gate Scientific develops and commercializes instruments and consumable platforms for life science and diagnostic applications. We are co-located with a contract manufacturer and able to handle low-to-mid volume manufacturing, including reagent lyophilization. We have developed an automatic air sampling platform that includes an instrument able to run multiplexed qPCR on one-time-use consumables with onboard reagents that are stable for 1 year. There is no user intervention required to run the instrument and acquire the data. The instrument automatically collects air at 100 L/min onto a filter to collect pathogens. The instrument then seals around the filter on the cartridge to form a PCR chamber. Dried and wet reagents that are on board the cartridge are actuated by the instrument and the PCR chamber is filled to start the qPCR. Standard Taqman assays are used. The current instrument uses a four-color detection for multiplexing. We have shown detection of 0.1 copies/m3 of air after 1 hour of collection of aerosolized OC43 viral surrogate. We are currently incorporating an array-based Taqman assay to multiplex up to 100x in a single chamber. We can lyophilize any desired Taqman assays into reagent beads to put in the cartridges. | We are looking for partners with TA2 and TA3 capabilities to help develop and evaluate a complete monitoring and control ecosystem incorporating our air sampling/qPCR platform | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| PathogenFocus | Mark Ereth, Chief Medical Officer | mereth4@gmail.com | jen.smith@pathogenfocus.com | Henderson, NC | PathogenFocus designs, manufactures, and distributes air treatment systems for microbial and VOC mitigation using modulated dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma technology. The technology has been validated for safety and efficacy in a volume of laboratories including commercial, university, and government agency labs. In situ case studies of bioburden reductions have been done in a variety of environments including but not limited to hospital, correctional facility, kennel, and casino. | Collaboration to integrate monitoring IoT with cold plasma air treatment. Integration of our cold plasma air treatment technology as an intervention to reduce bioaerosol exposure risk as a sustainable and cost effective building enhancement. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Draper Laboratory | Daniel Cunningham-Bryant, Principal Member of Technical Staff | DCunningham-Bryant@draper.com | ANaik@draper.com | Cambridge, MA | Draper is a not-for-profit research and development corporation with the core mission “to serve the national interest in applied research and engineering development, education, and technology transfer.” The organization has more than 1,800 engineers and biologists working side-by-side in extensive scientific laboratories containing state-of-the-art equipment. This includes 12,000 ft^2 of BSL-2 research space dedicated to biotechnology research and development, as well as access to a BSL-3 facility. Draper’s design, build, and test capabilities enable the development of solutions from early-stage concepts to integrated and refined systems successfully transitioned to the field. Draper is experienced in many technology areas relevant to the BREATHE program. Key examples of our work include an integrated system for automated nucleic acid extraction and a miniaturized spectrometer currently used to measure air quality on the International Space Station. We also have experience with the development of sensitive assays for the detection of trace nucleic acid targets, numerous microfluidic manipulation technologies, device integration, and scale-up to production. We will leverage our experience to develop a high-performance indoor air biosensing system which meets BREATHE TA1 program requirements. | Draper is seeking partners with expertise related to TA2 and TA3. While we intend for the primary focus of our work to be on biosensor development for TA1, Draper has extensive experience in software and algorithm development, data processing, systems integration, and large-program management that can leveraged in a supporting role on TA2 and TA3 work. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Attune | Julien Stamatakis, CTO | julien@attuneiot.com | serene@attuneiot.com | Vienna, VA | Attune is a leader in real-time monitoring for schools, office buildings, and hospitals in critical areas such as indoor air quality, energy consumption, risk of water leaks, equipment status, and more. The Attune plug and play platform allows to easily connect new sensors and provide the data in the cloud in real time. | Attune is looking to support potential teaming partners with real time data collection, analytics and visuals, as well as building controls optimization | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Harvard-UCI Infection Prevention Group | Michael Klompas, MD MPH, Professor of Medicine and Population Medicine | mklompas@bwh.harvard.edu | Gianna.medeiros@hphci.harvard.edu | Boston, MA and Irvine, CA | We are physicians with deep expertise in infectious diseases, infection prevention operations, clinical epidemiologic research design, and the conduct of large-scale clinical trials in hospitals and nursing homes to address healthcare-associated infections. We have particular expertise in respiratory virus transmission in healthcare. Our team was at the front lines of the COVID pandemic providing direct patient care and formulating hospital policies and practices to protect staff and patients from nosocomial infections. We are very familiar with the kind of studies, evidence, and practical considerations needed to translate promising ideas and technologies into something that’s clinically attractive and feasible for clinicians and hospitals to adopt and integrate into routine clinical practice. Our group has conducted multiple groundbreaking clinical trials that have led to new practice standards in infection control, helped write national and international guidelines governing standards of care for infection care and infection prevention. Through our longstanding relationships with health system and long-term care facilities, we are capable of performing large demonstration projects that show how promising novel prevention strategies can be integrated into routine operations in realistic and practical ways that fit into organizational workflows and clinical practice. | We are looking for teaming partners who: 1) are capable of developing sensor technology and software that would conform to our recommended clinical and pragmatic specifications for utility and ease of use, 2) are able to iteratively redesign a product based upon critical input on the design features needed to make pathogen detection technologies clinically meaningful and operationally acceptable to healthcare facilities and end-users, and 3) have controlled environments for initial proof of concept testing before entry to clinical environments. It would be highly preferred to have experience working with clinical and operational leaders. We are able to provide 1) clinical and operational insight and user criteria to inform teams developing software for TA2, 2) robust epidemiologic study design for evaluating function in a variety of healthcare and non-healthcare settings, and 3) access to hospital and nursing homes partners for studies in those settings if a suitable product can be created. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Harvard University | Jacopo Movilli, Lead Scientist | jmovilli@g.harvard.edu | ashneidm@g.harvard.edu | Allston, MA | Our multidisciplinary team brings together sensor healthy buildings researchers (Harvard SEAS and GSD) with specialists in cheminformatics and toxicology (UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy) to develop a novel bioinspired volatile sensor: intelligent Nature-inspired Olfactory Sensors Engineered to Sniff (iNOSES). iNOSES, is poised to address the unmet need for reliable, real-time detection of harmful volatiles indoors, in particular targeting volatile metabolites, which are established markers of mold, as well as, potentially, bacteria and other biologics. Partnerships with an air purification company, medical schools, and school of public health are currently in development. | We would like to connect with any interested stakeholders. In particular, partners who can help with building integration, end-users, microbiologists, mycobiologists (insights into metabolites worth targeting, knowledge about mold growth locations, triggers, etc.), product development/ manufacturing, modeling volatile transport (nuances related to mold residing in walls, how volatiles arrive at sensor : dynamics, concentrations). | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| R-Zero Systems, Inc | Patrick Gerding, Director of Sales - Public Sector | pgerding@rzero.com | eredmond@rzero.com | S. Salt Lake City, UT | R-Zero exists to harmonize the needs of human well-being, energy efficiency, and environmental stewardship. BREATHE sits squarely in our strategic pathway to ensure buildings are not just functional spaces but sustainable ecosystems that foster health, performance, efficiency, and a reduced footprint. We cannot imagine a better way to deliver cost-effective building interventions to improve human health and impact the built environment at a large scale than through ARPA-H’s BREATHE. We believe our capabilities in measuring, visualizing, and acting on indoor air and environment quality can underpin all of BREATHE’s work. R-Zero’s platform combines various technologies for the built environment specifically targeting health and efficiency. We differentiate from our competition by combining world-class real-time occupancy, people count, air quality, and environmental sensors with scientifically proven UV-C disinfection, health modeling, and software to create a new breed of intelligent building platform. With data visibility from sensors (occupancy, IAQ, IEQ, filters, disinfection) our rules-based software provides efficiency recommendations for building management systems based on a wide breadth of vital data. This unique combination allows us to use real-time occupancy data to drive efficiencies in building controls like HVAC and lighting systems while optimizing for occupant health and comfort. | We know the problems we face as a society cannot be solved individually. Together, though, we can exponentially improve our indoor environments, air, and public health. Buildings are complex ecosystems and collaboration is essential in elevating them to future capabilities. We are excited to ally with ARPA-H and like-minded organizations to combine solutions and expertise to drive new standards in the quality and safety of our indoor environments. We are looking for an experienced Prime and skilled teaming partners who can help fulfill the full spirit and letter of the TAs and exceed the BREATHE objectives. As a younger and growing company, we know we have experience and energy to share, and are excited about teaming relationships that fully leverage that value and empowers us to continue growth. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Y2X Life Sciences | Tom Cirrito, PhD, Chairman and Co-Founder | tom@y2xlifesciences.com | dave@y2xlifesciences.com | New York, NY | Y2X Life Sciences (Y2XLS) develops innovative devices for the detection of aerosolized pathogens to prevent disease transmission. We are a team of science-driven biologists, engineers, executives and regulatory experts .Y2XLS has secured an option to intellectual property from Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) relating to the detection of aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens. The technology was developed with NIH RAD-X and private foundation support. It is utilized in three products: 1) micro-immunoelectrode (MIE) chips for use in our own devices and in devices developed by our partners; 2) a breathalyzer to detect respiratory pathogens in under 60 seconds with sensitivity comparable to PCR, and 3) a device to monitor air quality in real time in indoor spaces. Our devices are low-cost, easy to operate by an untrained technician, and have been published in the peer-reviewed literature with a successful clinical trial and real-world detection of aerosolized pathogens in indoor environments. Y2X and its collaborators are also developing a nanobody library that enables us to isolate and develop new devices against emerging pathogens within 3 weeks. | Y2X Life Sciences is seeking partners with expertise in TA2 and TA3-focused technologies and sophisticated understanding of protecting specific indoor environments that would enable a complete solution when coupled with our biosensor technology. Our air quality monitor creates a novel, and highly valuable biological data stream that will be essential for identifying pathogenic threats in real time. Y2X believes that this data can be the catalyst for impactful risk mitigation strategies in the face of an infectious agent, and can provide useful actionable insights into preventative measures to minimize future risks. The opportunity to combine the Y2X biosensor data with existing data streams such as temperature, humidity, air flow patterns, occupancy information, weather, and sewage monitoring technologies has the potential to generate new models of disease transmission and enable novel risk mitigation strategies for the built environment. We are seeking partners that enable us to maximize the impact of our detection technology for specific pathogens, and in public health emergencies. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Donnay Detoxicology LLC | Albert Donnay, Consulting Toxicologist and Environmental Health Engineer | albert@donnaydetox.com | paige@donnaydetox.com | Hyattsville MD | Focused on analysis of patterns in exhaled breath gases, by which respiratory illnesses caused by pathogenic bacteria, viruses, mycotoxins, and fungi can be distinguished from each other and similar illnesses caused by exposures to airborne chemicals and other non-biological stressors. I have US patents on breath holding methods by which the levels of gases diffusing from lungs, arteries, veins and the average of all tissues can be distinguished by any of over a dozen analytical methods in real time or close to real time. My method yields four distinct "breathprints" per method, which greatly boosts their power to distinguish diseases compared to other breath testing methods that only measure gases coming from one compartment. | Given that several companies already sell customizable sensor packages designed to: 1) continuously monitor indoor areas in real time for levels of radioactive, chemical, and other non-bio hazards, 2) assess the risks to human health posed by the levels of the non-biological hazards they detect, and 3) automatically adjust building management systems to mitigate these risks, I am hoping to join a team that includes such an already successful company and other partners who have experience with the following: real-time sensing of bioaerosols, airport security screening, commercial scale robotic floor cleaners, chemometric statistics, and clinical decision support software developed to help clinicians identify skin disorders from photographs and respiratory illnesses from recordings of lung sounds and speech. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Center for the Built Environment (CBE), University of California, Berkeley | Jiayu Li, Postdoctoral scholar | jiayu.li@berkeley.edu | schiavon@berkeley.edu | Berkeley, California | The Center for the Built Environment has expertise in several key research areas related to the built environment, including indoor environmental quality (IEQ), efficient HVAC controls, building decarbonization, human thermal comfort and interaction with buildings, and facade systems. In the area of infectious aerosol transmission, we have been working on several aspects: 1. Airflow Impacts on Transmission: We evaluate how common indoor fixtures like ceiling fans affect airborne transmission. 2. Risk Estimation Tools: We develop web tools for estimating infection risks within indoor environments. 3. Mitigation Measure Efficacy: Our studies assess the impact of airflow patterns on the effectiveness of mitigation strategies such as germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) systems. We investigate the real-world effectiveness of disinfection measures in indoor settings. 4. Disinfection Automation: We explore the integration of disinfection systems with HVAC operations and occupancy sensors. 5. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: We conduct evaluations of the cost-effectiveness of various mitigation measures. Besides, CBE houses a state-of-the-art climate chamber, equipped to precisely control air temperature, relative humidity, and airflow patterns. This facility offers an ideal testing ground for all three task areas (TAs) key areas, including testing the developed sensors (TA1), validating the developed risk assessment modeling (TA2), and evaluating mitigation strategies (TA3). | We are looking for teaming partners in the development of indoor air biosensors (TA1). | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Clarkson University | Suresh Dhaniyala, Professor | sdhaniya@clarkson.edu | Potsdam, NY | Our expertise is in the fields of advanced optical and electrical sensors, aerosol measurements, indoor air, bioaerosol measurements, and building ventilation systems. We have been developing novel, networked, compact, low-cost indoor air quality sensors that combine advances in opto-electrical sensing with ML/AI for selective detection and identification of airborne particles in real-time. We have are currently integrating these sensors with building management systems for optimized operation of ventilation systems to minimize energy while ensuring safe indoor air. We are closely working with a startup in Clarkson's incubator space, TelosAir, to advance these technologies to commercialization and manufacturing. | We are looking to partner with teams and individuals with benchtop sensing capability for specific bioaerosol detection and ready for integration with our aerosol sampling and sensing platform. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Green Moon Innovations LLC | John Luta, CEO | johnluta@greenmoon.tech | jluta@marian.edu | Indianapolis, IN | Green Moon Innovations is primarily focused on development and commercialization of nanotechnology applications developed by our C0-Founder and CSO Dr. Victor Castaño PhD. Physics with the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico. One such application is for a novel, long-lasting, nontoxic, broad spectrum antimicrobial which in laboratory testing has proven to be effective against airborne bacteria, viruses, and fungi without hazard to human life. | We believe firmly that upon further testing/validation our antimicrobial will have a meaningful impact on the quality of indoor air, and are seeking partners with expertise in ventilation with whom we can...Build Resilient Environments for Air and Total HEalth. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| OnsiteGene, Inc. | Yanhui Liu, CEO | yliu@onsitegene.com | tgong@onsitegene.com | San Diego, California | OnsiteGene has developed a sample-to-answer real time PCR instrument called PeakV consisting of a 5-minute superfast real time PCR module of 40 thermal cycles, a 5-minute nucleic acid extraction module, and a cartridge. The 5-minute PCR module, called XDive, is commercially available and has obtained FDA EUA clearance for CoVID, the LOD is 833 copies/mL. PeakV is capable of sample-to-answer autonomous tests in 20 minutes and detects 64 targets in one run. It is an open platform and other TaqMan assays can work on the system. The system has 16 independent reaction tubes (64 targets) currently and can be extended to 32 reaction tubes (128 targets). The number of tubes can be chosen based on the need of the application. Each tube has 4 optical channels now, and it can increase to 6 optical channels, which will increase the multiplexing capability further. It is a cartridge-based system. Both instruments and cartridges are low cost and easy to manufacture and maintain. At Onsitegene, we leverage our in-house ISO13485-certified facility for the comprehensive design and manufacturing of nucleic acid testing instruments, reagents, consumables, and kits. Our research focus is on cartridge based, superfast, multiplexing and low cost real time PCR instruments. | We are excited about the BREATHE Program because it aligns perfectly with the capabilities of our PeakV sample-to-answer 20-minute nucleic acid testing instrument (https://www.onsitegene.com/peakv-instrument). With minor adaptations, such as integrating an automatic air sampler and autonomous operation modules, our instrument can meet the BREATHE technical demands for continuous, unmanned pathogen monitoring. Our participation and successful completion of NIH's RDAx program has validated our capability to contribute effectively to the BREATHE Program. We are looking for partners in TA2 and TA3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| KiposTech | Hema Ravindran, Cofounder & CEO | hemaravindran@kipostech.com | raj.singh@kipostech.com | Columbia, PA | KiposTech is a hard-tech startup innovating air disinfection through non-thermal plasma technology. Our 'lightning in a box' in-duct and in-room hardware achieves >99% kill of all airborne pathogens and >90% removal of particles (0.01-10µm) in a single pass, with milli sec residence times fitting HVAC units—surpassing traditional methods like UVC. We remove bioburden from indoor spaces using one standalone technology, killing respiratory viruses and other high-risk, resistant airborne pathogens are our niche. We complement HEPA and MERV. We operate at high flow rates of 400-2000 cfm. Our hardware is plug-and-play, fitting into existing HVAC without structural modifications, not impeding airflow, featuring no moving parts, low pressure drop, and minimal maintenance requirements. Versatile in design, our hardware fits into any building type and adapts across different floors to meet varying ACH needs. We meet all program metrics outlined in Table 1, Sec 1.4, Pg -19 of the ARPA-H solicitation, including meeting high intervention efficacy, significant ROI, with automation features in our hardware. As specified on Pg. 8, point 3 of TA3, KiposTech’s innovative system aligns with the new technologies sought by ARPA-H, effectively closing the loop on protecting occupants from health risks associated with harmful bioaerosols (Fig.1, Pg. 7, TA3). | Partners for 1. Indoor Air Biosensors (TA1), 2. Respiratory Risk Assessment Software (TA2) KiposTech is an early-stage startup. Our team combines scientific expertise with business acumen, and we are critically data-driven. We know the grind this proposal calls for, we are nimble and have fire in our bellies to succeed. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Signature Science, LLC | Amy Benefield, PhD , Epidemiologist and Data Scientist | abenefield@signaturescience.com | pnagraj@signaturescience.com | Austin, Texas | SIGNATURE SCIENCE (SigSci) offers technology and subject matter expertise relevant to BREATHE’s mission in the following areas: epidemiological risk assessment and prediction, bioinformatics, and software development for pathogen threat detection. Environmental Risk Assessment Tools for Respiratory Pathogens: SigSci developed a modelling approach, originally for COVID-19, called CEAT. It allows users to estimate respiratory risk under various scenarios. It provides insights into how protective mitigation, occupancy, individual and group behavior, epidemiological, environmental, facility, and disease factors can affect risk levels from airborne transmission or inhalation from infectious respiratory particles (IRPs). Reference: https://www.science.org/doi/epdf/10.1126/sciadv.abq0593 Epidemiological Modeling and Outbreak Analytics: A TA2 risk model could be informed by epidemiological modeling to establish baseline risk estimates that can be combined with measurement data from indoor air biosensors (TA1). We have been active in the development of custom modeling techniques for respiratory disease outcomes at national, state, and local jurisdictions. We conduct operational near-term forecasting through hub consortia (FluSight, COVID-19 Forecast Hub, DoD Forecasting Challenge). Reference: https://www.signaturescience.com/vignette/focus/ Software Development for Pathogen Detection: We offer capability that can support TA1 performers with innovative custom assay design capabilities for emerging threats, leveraging expertise in pathogen biology, functional genomics, and microbial bioinformatics. Reference: https://www.signaturescience.com/vignette/biothreat-detection/ | We are actively seeking partners to support BREATHE priorities for TA1 and TA3. Examples of capabilities of interest include, but are not limited to, the following: 1) Biosensors for rapid identification of infectious respiratory particles (IRPs); 2) Occupancy sensor and airflow monitoring technologies to dynamically assess indoor space characteristics; 3) Operational experience implementing healthy building controls and interventions; and 4) Economic assessment expertise in quantifying cost of implementation given risk reduction benefit. We are seeking teams that would be interested in us supporting their TA2 approach through the use of our respiratory pathogen risk assessment tools and our epidemiological modeling approaches. Additionally, we would look to use the risk assessment tool to support TA3 approaches by using it to evaluate the effectiveness of mitigations and to assist in the optimization of mitigations, addressing costs, energy consumption, risk reduction and facility operations. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst, Center for Smart and Connected Society | Prashant Shenoy, Distinguished Professor | shenoy@cs.umass.edu | Amherst, MA | We are a group of Engineers and Computer Scientists who have more than a decade experience working on smart and healthy buildings from the perspective of sensing, controls, and overall building management. We also work in the area of mobile health (mHealth). We have worked on novel approaches for indoor air quality sensing using mobile devices and also have experience with human-in-the-loop sensing systems that can obtain or provide user feedback. We have also built numerous software and hardware prototypes, built smart buildign testbeds and conducted user studies to evaluate effectiveness. | We have expertise in technical area 3 and are looking to form a team with researchers in technical areas 1 and 2. We are also looking to talk to industry partners in technical area 3. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Drexel University, Dept of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering | James Lo, Associate Professor | ljl55@drexel.edu | plg28@drexel.edu | https://drexel.edu/engineering/academics/departments/civil-architectural-environmental-engineering/ | Based on our faculty expertise, Drexel is well poised to contribute strongly to TAs 2 and 3, and also to work with team members on TA 1 elements. We have expertise in microbial analytics, risk assessment, epidemiology, environmental monitoring and modeling, pathogen transmission, building control and operation, computational fluid dynamics, economic analysis, and community engagement and interactions. Because of these research areas, we have expertise to carry out the following activities. For TA2, we will create dose-response risk models using epidemiological data, considering occupant factors. Software will generate risk assessments based on measured concentrations. Dynamic thresholds for mitigation actions will be established, in collaboration with TA3. For TA3, we will develop methods to enable automated responses by Building Automation Systems triggered by risk modeling, develop control strategies to mitigate indoor pathogens, explore cost-benefit analyses, and work to present actionable communication strategies to occupants. | We are actively seeking a collaborative partner for TA1 who possesses the necessary technology, either already in use or soon to be deployed, capable of measuring the comprehensive suite of analytes specified in the RFP. This partner should have the capability to generate a continuous and reliable data stream that can be integrated into our anticipated building performance and risk models. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| RTX Technologies Research Center | Joseph Mantese, Sr. Research Fellow | Joseph.Mantese@rtx.com | alison.gotkin@rtx.com | East Hartford, CT | Aerospace and defense | RTRC could provide platform validation and sensor production. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Raytheon Technology Research Center | Alison Gotkin, Associate Director, Business Development | gotkinae@rtx.con | Joseph Mantese | East Hartford CT | RTRC has been interested in research around air pathogens in both buildings and aircraft cabins for over 20 years. We are interested in being the system integrator for these devices. The research center is 95 years old and does research to support our business units, Pratt & Whitney, Collins Aerospace, and Raytheon. Looking forward to potential collaboration. | We are looking for a device manufacturer and we would serve as a system integrator. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| NS Nanotech, Inc. | Seth Coe-Sullivan, CEO | seth@nsnanotech.com | Ann Arbor, MI | We are developing solid state light sources in the far-UVC, a region of spectrum where light can deactivate virus and bacteria, without exceeding known exposure limits for human safety in skin and eyes. | We can be a small part of TA3 with our existing light sources, as well as develop new sources tailored to the closed loop requirement of BREATHE. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Convergent Research | Ales Flidr, Program Associate | ales@convergentresearch.org | glagoudas@gmail.com | Arlington, MA | Far-UVC emitters, IAQ sensors, safety and efficacy studies. Metagenomic sequencing. | Partnering on studies. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Yale University | Jordan Peccia, Professor | jordan.peccia@yale.edu | New Haven, CT | Our team has focused on the application of molecular biology-based tools to understand human exposure to and human health impacts of pathogens and allergens in the environment. We have more than 20 years of experience working with indoor aerosols and the built environment (homes, schools, hospitals) and operate one of the world's longest running wastewater surveillance programs. | Looking to partner with teams that have interest in allergen detection and understanding the emissions, fate, transport, and human exposure to allergen in buildings. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Nucleic Sensing Systems | Edgar Rudberg, CEO | ed@ns2co.com | mark@ns2co.com | Saint Paul, Minnesota | Nucleic Sensing Systems is developing the world’s only field-deployable, autonomous, web-connected monitoring tool able to report real-time data on environmental DNA (eDNA). By taking humans out of the loop, we connect autonomous high-frequency sampling with geospatial data to better monitor biological activity. We thereby empower our customers to connect autonomous high-frequency sampling data with geospatial data to better monitor, predict, and mitigate biological activity. | We are seeking partners with the ability to develop respiratory risk assessment software and optimize building systems for healthier indoor air. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Mario Bergés, Professor | marioberges@cmu.edu | Pittsburgh, PA | My lab has experience developing hardware and software solutions for building energy monitoring and controls. Particularly relevant to this call is our work on safe and sample-efficient machine-learning based control of HVAC systems. From a disciplinary stand point, the lab draws from tools and knowledge in building science, civil/computer/electrical engineering and machine learning. From an application stand point, the group has expertise in occupancy monitoring/estimation, electricity monitoring and disaggregation, building automation system protocols, fault detection and diagnosis for HVAC, and other related areas. | We are comfortable contributing solutions to address TA-3, and would seek to partner with experts addressing TA-1 and TA-2. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Center for Applied Radon Research | Kimberley Waldron, Director | Kwaldron@radonresearch.com | Kimberleywaldron@comcast.net | Denver, Colorado | Radon gas is innocuous; it is the four decay products of radon that are the direct cause of radon-induced lung cancer. According to the EPA, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and takes an average of 57 lives in the US every day. I am developing a low-cost method for measuring and removing radon decay products. Because radon decay products attach to airborne particulate matter, filtration is the key to removing them. Almost no one recognizes this fundamental fact about radon because research on radon stalled when US radon programs were privatized in the early 2000s. My small business is one of the only organizations applying modern scientific techniques to the radon problem. | Expertise and instrumentation for particulates study. My forte is nuclear chemistry. I do work on particulates, but PM is not my background. I would like to join a team working on a nest of sensors and be the radon specialist and consultant for radionuclides. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| University of Minnesota | Chris Hogan, Professor | hogan108@umn.edu | Minneapolis, MN | My laboratory generally focuses on aerosol science, with a specific emphasis on aerosol physics and transport, and the design of aerosol sampling systems and measurement instruments. We design unique virtual impactor concentrators, able to sample >1000 liters per minute of flow and concentrate particles in the 0.5-10 micrometer diameter range to 1 liter per minute of flow. We achieve such concentration increases by coupling virtual impactors in series (2-3 stages in series). These systems can be coupled with downstream in-flight analysis approaches and collection systems for bioaerosol analysis. Our sampling systems are optimized through a combined simulation-experimental approach, where we simulate hundreds of nozzle designs to identify nozzles which minimizes losses of large particles, and maximize inertial separation of smaller particles from flow streamlines. We believe sample concentration in-flight is going to be an essential step in biosensor implementation to overcome signal limitations. | We are looking for partners able to design biosensors with the specificity to identify more than 25 pathogens on a rapid time scale. Our group has experience in the design and optimization of aerosol collection systems, and can design virtual impactor concentrator-collection systems to be coupled with nearly any sensor. We are also looking for partners for TA2 and TA3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| University of Texas at Dallas | Hui Ouyang, Assistant Professor | Hui.Ouyang@utdallas.edu | Dallas, Texas | Our Aerosol Measurement & Control (AMC) lab at UTD is dedicated to advancing aerosol physics fundamentals, with a particular focus on investigating the transport and control of bioaerosols within indoor environments. Presently, our research involves conducting lab measurements to understand the viability decay of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in airborne conditions. Additionally, we are committed to fostering the standardization of aerobiology lab studies. This includes enhancing the characterization of bioaerosols in terms of size, concentration, and physical decay, as well as improving sampling devices and refining protocols. Moreover, we aim to elevate the biological characterization of bioaerosols, encompassing RNA/DNA analysis and viability assessments. | Our lab at UTD can contribute specifically to chamber tests and wind tunnel tests for bioaerosol control technologies and biosensors. We look forward to collaborations with all technical areas. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Agentis Air LLC | Larry Rothenberg, President | lrothenberg@agentisair.com | rothenberglarry@gmail.com | Rockville Maryland | Agentis Air is developing air filtration technology that is energy efficient and can be adjusted in real time in response to demand due to building occupancy and/or IAQ threat measurements. This real time variability allows the technology to power a "smart" filtration system when connected to a building control system and IAQ sensors, so filtration level (and energy draw) are set based on IAQ targets and energy minimization goals. AA has released several stand-alone air purification products with this technology, as well as full scale commercial prototypes for both HVAC systems and air exchangers. | We are looking for teaming partners that are capable of providing project management and technical capabilities responsive to TA1 and TA2. Our goal is to provide one filtration component responsive to TA3, namely a dynamically variable HVAC filter operated by the facility control system in response to sensor and occupancy data. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Vibrant Building Technologies | Stephen Horowitz, CTO | steve@vibrantbt.com | michael@vibrantbt.com | Norwalk, CT | Vibrant Building Technologies is a rapidly growing tech startup developing a suite of home automation products. Our premiere product is an innovative air purification system combining extensive air quality monitoring and advanced purification controls. As an organization, we bring expertise in microsensor development, (optical/spectral, chemical, piezoelectric, capacitive, and other transduction methods), sensor integration and automation, IoT, electronics design, electrical and mechanical engineering, medical/physiological research, air quality sensing, air purification system design and technology development, machine-learning, and software development, as well as physical interventions to improve air quality. We are also an experienced proposer and performer on government-funded research and development efforts. | While we can participate and contribute to varying levels across all technical areas of ARPA-H BREATHE, we are seeking potential teaming partners in the following areas: 1) Specialized expertise in biosensor development (design and fabrication) and or novel biosensing technologies. We have expertise in microsensor and nanosensor development but seek targeted experts in functionalizing and/or customizing sensors for relevant biological detection. We can provide sensor integration, data collection, and automation, including electronics, system control, communications, algorithms, and data analysis. In particular, we seek a partner with access (in-house or other) to relevant facilities for prototype fabrication of sensors at low volumes for R&D. 2) Medical expertise, particularly in air quality impacts on physiological parameters and long-term health. Also, partners with experience in designing and running medical research studies would be beneficial. 3) Partners with access to commercial building spaces for test and evaluation. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Applied Photonix LLC | Lovely Goswami, President and COO | l.goswami@holtec.com | goswami@usf.edu | Tampa, FL | We have developed an indoor air disinfection technology based on a Plasmonic Photonic process. This is the most advanced technology that integrates with the central air conditioning (HVAC) systems of buildings. It has been tested at a third party lab for efficacy against all kinds of microorganisms and VOCs. Test results show greater than 5 log reduction of DNA and RNA type of viruses, Gram Positive and Gram Negative bacteria and Bacillus Subtilis and Aspergillus Niger spores in indoor air in less than 20 minutes when the air is moving at 500 CFM. We plan to commercialize our systems for hospitals, airports, commercial, schools and residential buildings. | We are looking for partners that either assist our technology (sensors etc.) or can use our technology. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| University of Maryland | Jelena Srebric, Ph.D., Margaret G. and Frederick H. Kohloss Chaired Professor in Mechanical Engineering | jsrebric@umd.edu | College Park, MD | City@UMD (Center for Sustainability in the Built Environment) at the University of Maryland was established in 2019 to revolutionize the physical infrastructure in cities through sustainable distributed systems providing healthy and comfortable environments, energy efficiency, and clean water. The current focus of center’s research is on measurements and multi-scale modeling of built infrastructure to provide reliable assessments of how these systems affect occupant respiratory health, and building energy consumption. Our most recent work focuses on personal protective equipment and personal comfort systems to improve health and comfort outcomes for occupants. City@UMD’s work spans multiple-scale because we are looking for subscale processes and engineered devices that benefit building occupants and can positively influence emerging properties at the city infrastructure scale. | We are looking for corporate partners to use our sensing technology, analytical solutions and provide services to facility mangers in educational facilities. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| University of Illinois at Chicago - (bioAerium / AMFBG) | Igor Paprotny, Associate Professor | paprotny@uic.edu | caffrey@uic.edu | Chicago, IL | Our technology enables real-time multi-pathogen sensing from air using highly sensitive optimized nucleic acid amplification (NAA) techniques. We can sense for a panel of airborne pathogens, including COVID-19, H5N1, RSV, measles, as well as their mutations. Our technology is equivalent to optimized PCR from air, including front-end concentration and precipitation stage, reaction and detection microfluidics. We can multiplex multiple pathogens, 5 per well, and more than 100 wells at a time if needed, our time to detection is 30 min, with LOD of 1virion/10L air. We can continuously sample and detect due to microfabricated well form factor. Our technique can be quickly adapted to different pathogens as their genetic sequence emerges (https://www.bioaerium.com/) | Our research consortium, Air Microfluidic and Bio-surveillance Group (AMFBG) (https://amfg.lab.uic.edu/) is seeking partners to help us address TA2 and TA3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| | Poppy Health Inc. | Sam Molyneux, Co-CEO | sam@poppy.com | ec@poppy.com | Mountain View, California | Poppy Health is the global leader in advanced indoor air measurement technology for infectious aerosol control. We have unique and extensive real-world experience that spans the very core vision of this program, across airborne pathogen detection / alerting, spatial and temporal airborne infection risk monitoring and responsive building mitigations. We collaborate extensively with global HVAC and building controls leaders. Through this we have served >1,000 customer locations (35M sqft+) across 25 cities in the US and Europe, covering nearly all typical and industrial environments. We have developed, deployed and scaled massively multiplexed DNA & real-time aerosol tracer solutions that enable direct, accurate, calibrated and standard-backed (ASHRAE 241) engineering control mitigations. We are the only provider of real-time aerosol tracer hardware, software and data systems that can be used as installed and kit-based solutions. We deliver Standard 241 particle decay measurement at scale today, and implement this for diverse space types. We are a strong technology integrator, with sophisticated cloud computing, machine learning, data fusion, and sensor systems, along with rapid hardware development capabilities. Our team previously commercialized and operationalized the IARPA FUSE program ($133M), participated in the X-Prize AI for Global Good, lead the CZI Computable Knowledge AI program. | We have an exceptional TA2 and TA3 plan for BREATHE, and are looking for TA1 performers to join a leading set of industrial, government and academic collaborators in this visionary program. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Nano Lab at Tufts University | Sameer Sonkusale, Professor and Director of Nano Lab | sameer@ece.tufts.edu | Boston MA | Develop chemical and biological sensors for healthcare and environment. | To address Technical Area 3: We are looking for partners in developing smart infrastructure for healthier air using novel and scalable disinfection platforms. Partners in sensing and software are welcome. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| Center for Wellness in the Built Environment (CWBE), University of Southern California (USC) | Joon-Ho Choi, Associate Professor | joonhoch@usc.edu | Los Angeles, California | The Center for Wellness in the Built Environment (CWBE) at USC is dedicated to enhancing individual well-being through innovative design and intelligent building practices that prioritize human-building integration. Our research is focused on optimizing indoor environmental quality (IEQ) to significantly influence human physiological and psychological health. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, including AI and machine learning, we create adaptive environments that proactively respond to the nuanced interactions between occupants and theirambient environments. Our interdisciplinary approach melds architecture, environmental science, psychology, and engineering to investigate how various elements of the built environment, such as air quality, lighting, thermal comfort, and acoustics, affect health and productivity. Central to our research is the development of integrated systems that utilize biometric sensors and real-time data analytics. These systems monitor the physiological responses of individuals to their environment, facilitating the customization of spaces to enhance comfort, reduce energy consumption, and promote overall well-being. Through world-wide collaboration with international industry leaders and collaborators, the CWBE is at the forefront of establishing new benchmarks for sustainable and human health-centric architectural practices. This collaborative work not only advances the field but also champions the broader implementation of human-building integration principles, steering urban development towards a healthier and more sustainable future. | Our center actively seeks to collaborate with industry partners at the forefront of technology in IoT devices, environmental sensors, wearable technology ( including bio-sensors), and AI-applied building solutions. We are particularly interested in partners who possess innovative capabilities in manufacturing advanced devices that can integrate seamlessly into our research on optimizing indoor environmental quality and human-building integration. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University | Peter Nguyen, Senior Research Scientist | peter.nguyen@wyss.harvard.edu | Boston, MA | Our lab is located at the Wyss Institute and has pioneered two technologies - the use of CRISPR systems for nucleic acid detection (SHERLOCK) and the implementation of lyophilized synthetic biology - for rapid and inexpensive molecular diagnostics. We have been one of the earliest developers of synthetic biology and continue to advance key areas in this field. The Wyss Institute brings over a decade of ground-breaking engineering, with key facilities supporting device fabrication, microfluidics, chemical and physical analysis, advanced imaging, and biomedical expertise. This unique environment has fueled over 4,000 patents and 58 startups from the Wyss in the past 10 years. Our interdisciplinary environment, resources, and culture is ideal for cultivating and achieving high-risk innovative breakthroughs. | We are seeking TA2 and TA3 teaming partners with an established technology platform and expertise in modeling airflow and predictive pathogen risk in the built environment. Partners having pre-existing networks for potential testing sites would be a bonus. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| Exposomics, Inc. | Allison Zhang, CO-Founder and CEO | zhang@exposomics.io | Mountain View, CA | Exposomics is a cutting-edge company that is focused on understanding and improving the exposome and environmental health. We specialize in the development of innovative technologies and products that are designed to track and analyze the various environmental exposures that individuals experience throughout their lives. Current research at Exposomics focuses on the development of fully automated sensors to characterize the complex airborne exposures (TA1). | Exposomics is looking for teaming partners in TA2 and TA3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| Biotia Inc | David Danko, CTO | dcdanko@biotia.io | ohara@biotia.io | Brooklyn, NY | We fight infectious disease using genomics and AI. Biotia's focus is on building tools to fight infectious disease. We do this in two ways: 1) developing NGS based diagnostic tests and 2) developing a global disease surveillance platform called GeoSeeq. We have deep expertise modeling disease and can bring a global context to local data. Our major expertise for BREATHE is in T2. | We are looking for partners with long term potential both for this project and other future projects. We operate in a number of biosurveillance projects worldwide and are looking for partners than we can work with in a global capacity. For BREATHE we are primarily looking for groups with T1 and T3 expertise. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Mayo Clinic | Connie Chang, Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering | chang.connie@mayo.edu | Rochester, MN, Scottsdale, AZ, Jacksonville, FL | We have experience in TA1/TA2, and locations for TA3: Our team at Mayo Clinic specializes in multiplexed, droplet microfluidics that can increases speed of pathogen detection and reduces the sample and reagent volumes required. We can perform multiplexed detection using hundreds of barcoded drops, can simultaneously test for multiple pathogens, and detect down to single virions and bacteria. We have experience in commercialization of point-of-care diagnostics for pathogen detection (TA1). We have advanced electronics that can be integrated into our point-of-care devices for real-time healthcare monitoring of epidemiological data, performing microminiaturized, scalable, flexible Health Internet of Things with embedded real-time machine learning/AI. Finally, we have the capability to standardize and integrate exposome data to collect, store, and analyze environmental data in conjunction with biological data, to understand the social determinants of health ontology (TA2). We have medical expertise and experience in clinical IRB studies. Mayo Clinic’s campuses are in three different climates and locations where we envision performing TA3 testing (Rochester, Minnesota; Jacksonville, Florida; and Scottsdale/Phoenix, Arizona). We are excited to leverage Mayo Clinic resources and clinical experience across multiple locations, climates, and settings to bring healthy indoor air to patients. | Looking for teaming partners in TA3 (field studies) and to strengthen in particular areas of TA1/2 (aerosol capture, chamber studies, software deployment). Our team is employing a multidisciplinary approach that combines state-of-the-art microfluidic technology, engineering, Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, and big data analytics to revolutionize pathogen detection and broaden our understanding of air quality and the environmental factors that impact health. We have extensive experience working on large interdisciplinary efforts and look forward to partnering to be at the forefront of innovative air quality medical technology, ultimately improving patient outcomes. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| Teledyne FLIR Defense | Jeremy Walker, PhD, Senior Director- Science & Technology | jeremy.walker@teledyne.com | mitch.wells@teledyne.com | West Lafayette, IN | Teledyne FLIR has developed the Instantaneous Biological Analyzer & Collector (IBAC)-2, which has been deployed in numerous DoD and DHS biological surveillance programs in diverse environments since 2004. IBAC-2 relies on the principle of Ultraviolet Laser-Induced Fluorescence (UV-LIF); a laser tuned for biological cofactors continuously monitor air for fluorescent fingerprints associated with bioaerosols. UV-LIF is widely used to sort biological particulates. IBAC-2 is a rapid trigger and sample collector that can be used as a standalone bioaerosol trigger or in concert with a confirmatory biological analyzer. Further, FLIR has recently engineered the IBAC-2 into Class 1 unmanned aerial system (UAS) payload called MUVE B330 for standoff detection and collection of biological aerosols as part of the JPEO-CBRND’s NBCRV SSU program. This next generation system has key improvements including exponential increase in the computational power of the system. The core optical cell and detection algorithm used in the IBAC-2 and MUVE B330 are identical. Teledyne FLIR has recently been researching the ability to presumptively identify biological aerosols (bacteria, fungi, molds, viruses, allergens) by their unique UV-LIF fingerprints. We propose this technology as a low-cost, rapid bioaerosol detector, collector, and presumptive identification system within footprint of a bio-trigger. | Teledyne FLIR seeks to partner with a Prime that has capabilities in TA2 and TA3, as well as a confirmatory biodetection company in TA1. Teledyne FLIR proposes to improve the IBAC-2 by modifying the COTS sensor with AI algorithms that enable rapid (1 Hz) detection, collection and presumptive identification of bioaerosols. The Aerosolized Biological Intelligence & Collection Utility System (ABICUS) is a highly-SWaP reduced version of IBAC-2 that can be physically integrated with confirmatory sensing platforms (eg. PCR or Lateral Flow Assays) or can be networked to provide real-time baseline aerosol particle counts, background measurements and presumptive indication. This information can be used by TA2 partners to refine indoor aerosol physics models, and by TA3 partners to feed large-scale data analytics and provide distributed management of building HVAC systems. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Johnson Controls | Jon Douglas, Director Healthy Buildings | jon.douglas@jci.com | Milwaukee, WI | The JCI Healthy Buildings team's mission is to provide our customers with building solutions that improved the health, productivity, and wellness of building occupants. | We are interested in contributing our practical experience in operating buildings to the BREATHE program. Early on in the project, we could contribute technical expertise in the operation of building HVAC, control, and security systems. We have connections with end customers in various building types and can help to provide voice of the customer feedback on product concepts. Later in the project, our technicians can provide support in implementing solutions in buildings. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Rutgers University, Bioaerosol Research and Technology Lab | Gedi Mainelis, Professor | mainelis@rutgers.edu | New Brunswick | The bioaerosol lab at Rutgers has more than 20 years of expertise in developing and testing various bioaerosol sampling and control technologies. The strength of expertise lies in the application of electrostatic collection techniques for gentle bioaerosol capture into liquid. One of the developed technologies allows to concentrate an entire sample into a single droplet of liquid thereby enabling the detection of low of airborne microorganism concentrations. This technology could be used for fast detection of airborne microbial agents. We recently developed a completely passive bioaerosol sampler that uses unique materials and design to passive capture bioaerosols. Combination of this passive sampler with fast detection methodology could serve as a quiet sentinel for airborne microorganism detection. | We are looking for partners in TA1 to create a biosensing package: our collectors + advanced and multiplex detection and information delivery. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| Allergy Standards Ltd. (ASL) | Jennifer Whelan, COO | jenniferwhelan@allergystandards.com | Dublin, Ireland | ASL has spent 20 years researching the indoor environment and its impact on people with heightened sensitivities, such as those with asthma and allergies. We have developed and run testing protocols to assess the impact of various interventions on bio-aerosols in environmental chambers and in other contexts. We have extensive experience of testing filtration products, cleaning products, and other interventions through a range of partner laboratories across multiple sectors. Our asthma & allergy friendly certification addresses common household allergens such as dust mite allergens, cat allergen and pollen, as well as bacteria and fungi, and uses immune-quantification to measure allergen levels before and after filtration and other interventions. The focus of our R&D and our expertise is the indoor environment and its network of interacting sources of contamination and of factors that impact on human health. Although based in Ireland, we work extensively in the US. | We can support research work in any of the three technical areas, but our expertise would be particularly relevant in partnering with an organisation that has a bio-sensor device, to look at testing methodologies and assessment approaches. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Airmid Healthgroup | Dr. John Ryan, CEO | johnryan@airmidhealthgroup.com | emmag@airmidhealthgroup.com | Dublin, Ireland | Airmid Healthgroup is an independent contract research organization that specializes in testing products and services that seek to improve the indoor environment. We provide companies with independent evidence based scientific data to support their product/service development and claims. Using the latest molecular biology, immunoassay and air sampling techniques, Airmid provides high quality data to assess the impact of consumer products on selected viruses, bacteria, moulds, allergens and VOCs. Airmid delivers market relevant data to help some of the world’s leading companies develop, innovate and differentiate their products, services and messaging. Airmid Healthgroup operates the world's first ISO17025 accredited facility specializing in allergen analysis, directed by a physician and supported by a multidisciplinary team of experts in microbiology and allergy. The facility boasts several walk-in climate-controlled environmental chambers, which are complemented by surrounding laboratories dedicated to microbiology, allergen, and virology studies, facilitating swift analysis of samples. Airmid is recognized as a leader in environmental research, development, and product testing. | Airmid’s mission is to prevent ill health caused by exposure to indoor air pollutants. Airmid Healthgroup is an organization involved in the research, development and testing of products and services that seek to improve the indoor environment. We provide companies with independent data to support their product claims. We offer a unique combination of a specialist team of clinicians and scientists, together with a state-of-the-art testing 10000 sqft laboratory facility comprising of nine large environmental test chambers. We are looking for teaming partners in TA2. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| IEQmax | Melissa Edison Barnes, President | Melissa@IEQmax.com | Nathan@IEQmax.com | Denver Colorado | IEQmax has developed unique technology for comprehensive, low cost, widely deployable continuous indoor air monitoring and an analytic platform for risk assessment and business management. We have the distinct and proprietary ability to continuously measure and analyze bio -load (% of particulates that are biological in nature), in addition to other air characteristics including temperature, humidity, particulates, and specific gasses and chemicals. Our AI/ML enabled analytic platform was developed to ingest our proprietary device data and 3rd party data. Our platform’s open APIs allow for integration with BMS systems to drive efficiency, increase safety and support sustainability objectives. We have had protypes deployed in healthcare and agriculture research environments and have several pilot implementations scheduled for June – September of this year in a variety of healthcare settings including compounding pharmacy, outside constructions areas and ICUs. These pilots are in partnership with leading hospitals across the country. We expect to enter the market in 3rd Q of 2024. IEQmax provides real-time status, the ability to query based on air characteristic, time range and location and to pull reports through both a mobile ap and an online dashboard. IEQmax provides a customizable notification system if air characteristics rise above pre-set thresholds. | IEQmax is looking for the following opportunities for collaboration and partnership: TA1 – partners that are interested in working with and testing our real-time continuous air sensor technology and platform for specific use cases. TA2 – partners that can supply risk assessment models based on agreed specific indoor air substance/characteristic safety thresholds which will allow our team to further develop algorithms that support multi data stream predictive modeling capabilities. TA3 – BMS technology partners to test and collaborate for real-time functioning system adjustments based on real-time environmental data. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Indoor Air Innovation and Research (iAIR) Institute | Dr. John McKeon, Principal | john@iair-group.com | AL | The indoor Air Innovation & Research (iAIR) Institute is a leading 501(c)6 think-tank galvanizing leaders in consumer products, building materials and technology services to promote and enhance indoor air quality in homes, commercial buildings and schools. Our focus lies in transforming the way products, services, and indoor environments are conceptualized, created, and presented to optimize their impact on health. Our institute stands at the forefront of enhancing indoor air quality (IAQ) through groundbreaking research, consultancy and innovation. We specialize in harnessing the power of sentiment analysis and market research to provide comprehensive solutions and insights for organizations dedicated to improving indoor environments. At iAIR, we are proud to have access to a diverse pool of experts in the fields of environmental science, data analytics, public health, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technologies. Our team is adept at applying their knowledge to study various aspects of indoor air quality, including pollutant sources, ventilation system effectiveness, and occupant health impacts. By integrating advanced sentiment analysis techniques, we also capture and understand the perceptions and needs of building occupants and stakeholders. Our mission is to help the world create the healthiest possible indoor environments through science, education, and collaborative research. | The iAIR Institute is a prominent research center focusing on how the built environment influences and impacts on human health. The iAIR Institute has capabilities which pertain to Technical Area 2 (Respiratory Risk Assessment Software). We are looking for teaming partners in the development of indoor air biosensors (TA1) and Healthy Building Controls and System Integration (TA3). | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| ICF | Heidi Hubbard, Vice President | heidi.hubbard@icf.com | jessica.wignall@icf.com | Reston, VA | Our team leverages a deep expertise in respiratory risk assessment and cutting-edge software development to drive innovation in health sciences. With a proven track record of assessing and mitigating respiratory risks for federal clients, as highlighted in our comprehensive risk assessments, we bring a unique perspective to the table. Our software development prowess is demonstrated by our team's extensive skills, including agile methodologies, application development, and AI-augmented practices, ensuring that our digital solutions are not only robust but also at the forefront of technological advancement. By combining these two core strengths, our team is uniquely positioned to foster the development of innovative solutions with teaming partners that address the pressing challenges of respiratory health in today's ever-changing environment. | Our team is interested in complementing partners, such as R1 academic research labs and engineers who specialize in Technical Areas 1 and 3, who seek subject matter experts in risk assessment and software design. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Biointerphase | Alyssa Long, Bioengineer | along@biointerphase.com | Pittsburgh, PA | Biointerphase has been developing a biocontamination risk assessment and sanitization decision tool through a sensor fusion and artificial intelligence-based approach. We have an active project with the Department of Transportation to expand this model on public transportation assets. We believe that this model can be transferred over to schools, office buildings, and hospitals to improve the understanding of indoor air quality for the health and safety of those inside. We believe that by using a combination of biotic and abiotic sensors, many data driven insights can be determined to better understand and predict health and safety concerns related to air quality. | We are looking for a partner or partners who can help us in TA1 and TA3. Ideally, our partner would have a focus in the development of indoor air biosensors (TA1) and have an existing hardware and software platform that we could integrate our solution into through the BREATHE program for easy transition into an indoor space. Additionally, we would be looking for a partner with expertise in the optimization of building systems (TA3). | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| Purdue University | Brandon E. Boor, Associate Professor | bboor@purdue.edu | nusratj@purdue.edu | West Lafayette, Indiana | Our research team investigates the dynamics of indoor aerosols and how people and building systems shape the physics and chemistry of indoor atmospheric environments. We integrate state-of-the-art experimental tools with mathematical modeling to generate new fundamental knowledge on indoor aerosol emissions, transformations, exposures, and respiratory doses in residential and commercial buildings. Our research team, along with our collaborators, utilizes a variety of full-scale building system test facilities at Purdue University, including: (1.) the Herrick Living Laboratory offices – four side-by-side open-plan offices, each with their own independently controlled and monitored HVAC system; (2.) the Purdue ReNEWW House and mobile zEDGE Tiny House residential building test beds; (3.) advanced IAQ chamber with a fully reconfigurable ventilation and airflow distribution system; and (4.) an ASHRAE 52.2 HVAC filter test rig. In addition, we use advanced aerosol instrumentation and online mass spectrometry for real-time monitoring of particle- and gas-phase species in buildings and their HVAC systems. | We are looking for academic and/or industry partners with expertise in the development and evaluation of indoor air biosensors (TA1). | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Breathesafe LLC | Edderic Ugaddan, Owner | info@breathesafe.xyz | pierre@pierrewellner.com | East Providence, RI | We have two software engineers and a data scientist. We have experience building risk assessment software: https://www.breathesafe.xyz/#/ that runs on the web, making use of CO2 data (rebreathed fraction) and other environmental and individual factors to compute risk of airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2. We have experience manufacturing air cleaners (https://breathesafe-llc.myshopify.com/products/laminair) and CO2 sensors. Our CO2 sensors communicate with our iOS app to facilitate data collection (https://www.aircoda.com/). In short, we can help with building software, building hardware that interfaces with said software, creating bespoke air cleaning tools, assessing risk, optimizing resources, designing experiments to assess efficacy of interventions. | We are looking for those with TA-1 expertise / bio-sensing. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| University of New South Wales Australia | Dr Martin R Lindley , Director of Research School of Health Sciences | m.lindley@UNSW.edu.au | m.r.lindley@lboro.ac.uk | Sydney NSW Australia | My Translational Chemical Biology Research Group have been engaged with various projects from analysis of exhaled breath to monitor health and disease to much wider social aspects of breathing https://www.lboro.ac.uk/research/ias/programmes/past-themes/breathe/ Recent relocation to Australia has allowed for new and exciting research collaborations and this opportunity is an interesting one. Currently we are looking to collect data in order to understand how the 3000+ Volatile Organic Compounds found in exhaled breath can help us understand the metabolic mechanisms of health and disease both at an individual level but also within group settings and large community indoor areas. | Built Environment experts who are already engaged with the concept of healthy indoor air environments. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Kaiterra | Stewart Johnson, Head of Strategic Business Development | stew.johnson@kaiterra.com | info@kaiterra.com | https://www.kaiterra.com/ | Kaiterra is the industry leader in IAQ monitoring, providing an end-to-end air quality monitoring, data analytics and optimization solution for healthy buildings, workplaces, schools, and government organizations worldwide. Leveraging our hardware, software, and a team of air quality experts, Kaiterra helps facilities leaders and healthy building pioneers assess and improve their indoor air quality in real-time. Our solutions can be found in many of the world’s most iconic buildings and workplaces, such as the Empire State Building and the Burj Khalifa. On the hardware side, our award-winning IAQ monitors are whitelisted by the GSA and trusted by the most security-conscious organizations in the world, such as Google, Microsoft and Amazon. The devices deliver real-time data in the cloud and integrate seamlessly with any major BMS/BAS through a full range of connectivity options. On the software side, our cloud dashboard provides advanced reporting, analytics and enterprise-level device management capabilities. It also includes advanced risk assessment modeling capabilities, including viral transmission risk and mold risk assessment. | With over 10 years of experience in designing, manufacturing and commercializing air quality sensors and software at scale – with large customers across all building types targeted by the BREATHE program – Kaiterra is well-equipped to contribute across all TAs as needed. However, given our focus and expertise in non-biological air pollutants, we are specifically looking for TA1 partners with deep expertise in biosensors. We can provide support in manufacturing, sensor integration, data collection, and automation, including building controls, communications and data analytics. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| KorganoTech | Deepak Upadhyay, CEO | Deepak@KorganoTech.com | Support@korganoTech.com | Livermore, California | KorganoTech is currently focused on developing an innovative, cost-effective indoor air quality management system. This integrated system combines biosensors to monitor the environment, AI-powered algorithms for risk assessment, and specialized air filters that capture and deactivate pathogens. The data collected from these sensors is fed into a proprietary algorithm, which also considers external factors like area infection rates alongside indoor metrics such as CO2 levels and pathogen presence. An AI-based mobile app analyzes this data to provide actionable insights and recommendations, such as wearing masks, change air filter, leaving the area, automatically recirculating air, or introducing fresh air. | We are seeking a collaborative partner specializing in the development of low-cost disposable optical biosensors using technologies such as surface plasmon resonance, colorimetry, fluorescence, and/or molecular sensors. The ideal partner will have experience in developing such biosensors or be actively engaged in research and development in this area. Our goal is to integrate these sensors with KorganoTech’s IAQ management system to deliver an affordable solution for all. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Quicksilver Biosciences | Erik Young , Chief Scientist | efy@quicksilverbiosciences.com | New York City, NY | Quicksilver Biosciences is pioneering the development of biosensing tools utilizing Carbon Nanotube Field Effect Transistors seamlessly integrated with Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor electronics. Our sensors function with no enzymes, tags, labels or fluorophores. The technology is adaptable to various target molecules and scalable for diverse applications. The seamless fusion of sensor and electronics enables the creation of high-density multiplex sensors with the ability to detect multiple targets. Our cutting-edge Diagnostikos platform, boasting up to 64,000 individually addressable devices, exemplifies our innovative approach. We offer expertise in TA1 and seek collaboration opportunities in TA2 and TA3. | We are looking to partner with entities providing expertise in TA2 and TA3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| Chemring Sensors | Robert McAtee, Director of Engineering | rmcatee@chemringsensors.com | dzipse@chemringsensors.com | Charlotte, NC | Chemring Sensors is a leading provider and systems integrator of advanced biological threat detectors and identifiers. We have the expertise and knowhow to provide full lifecycle product design, development, and production of Bio aerosol sensors and identifiers. Chemring has several products and technologies that can be utilized as part of the BREATHE program including a low SWaP-C Bio Aerosol Detector (iDetector) that uses UVLED-Fluorescence measurements to detect bacteria, viruses, toxins and other biological materials. | We are looking for teaming partners in TA2 and TA3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Well Living Lab | Meng Kong, Research Lead | meng.kong@delos.com | jovan.pantelic@delos.com | Rochester, MN | The Well Living Lab has been researching indoor environment health. Indoor air quality and building environment and system control are the two biggest topics of our research. For BREATHE program, our lab has the capabilities to support TA 2 and 3. TA2: We have designed, managed, and completed multiple studies to look into the impact of environmental interventions on occupants' behavior, performance, and health. We also developed analytics tools and software for predicting COVID-19 exposure risk and the performance of engineering approaches in terms of mitigating the risk. Our lab also has an amazing tech team that has built robust and secure data infrastructure and developed multiple software and applications for data collection, analytics, and visualization. TA3: We have the scientific and technical expertise to develop and deploy integrated control and characterize the effectiveness of interventions both in the lab and in the field. We have a network of partners with whom we have a previous track record of working that can provide buildings for testing in more than 3 climate zones. Our lad has six individually controlled living lab modules that can serve as the testbed to validate the integrated control and interventions. | Our lab is looking for partners who can lead the development and prototyping of the indoor air biosensor. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Center of Excellence for Exposure Health Informatics (CEEHI), University of Utah | Ram Gouripeddi, Assistant Professor | ram.gouripeddi@utah.edu | Julio.Facelli@utah.edu | Salt Lake City, Utah | Comprehensive quantification of effects of the modern environment on health requires considering data from all contributing environmental exposures (exposome) which can span endogenous processes within the body, biological responses of adaptation to environment, physiological manifestations of these responses, and socio-behavioral factors. While in general both our indoor and outdoor environment have been relatively less polluted, the continued use of newer chemicals and materials is potentially leading to increased incidence and exacerbations of various health conditions. Generating exposomes in the context of built environments requires integration of data from wearable and stationary sensors, environmental monitors, personal activities, physiology, medication use and other clinical data, genomic and other biospecimen-derived, person-reported and computational models, accommodating variable spatio-temporal resolutions in a privacy-preserving manner. CEEHI serves as a go-to collaborative for continuing investigations into state-of-the-art informatics methods for exposomics, and for researchers interested in conducting sensor-based, mobile and virtual exposure health studies. CEEHI seeks to advance the informatics infrastructure, Exposure Health Informatics Ecosystem (EHIE), using an ultra-large-scale infrastructure for integrated sensor monitoring systems, advance the use of novel sensors, and support the management of research processes and data for activities related to the study and its operations. EHIE consists of sensor data acquisition pipelines, participant and research facing tools, computational modeling frameworks, and big data integration platforms for in an infrastructure-as-a-service paradigm to provision generalizable multi-scale and multi-omics ecosystems. | We are looking for partners with expertise in biosensing (TA1). The Exposure Health Informatics Ecosystem is a sensor agnostic platform that can ingest any type of sensor technology with other data types into integrated data streams using an event-driven architecture for generating risk assessment profiles using temporal machine learning methods. Such real-time risk predictions can be consumed in various smart and IoT devices to drive actuations of various built-environment devices to drive remedial interventions relevant to human well-being and disease conditions. The CEEHI team brings together expertise in informatics, clinical medicine, nursing and deployment science to ensure such interventions are of value in real-world settings. We are also open to collaborations on TA3 as our data integration and risk assimilation pipelines are agnostic to specific built environment system technologies. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| el Microbial Integration Group (Boston University) | Miguel Jimenez, Assistant Professor | jmiguelj@bu.edu | Boston, MA | We integrate genetically engineered reporter microorganism into low-power, deployable devices for monitoring the human health and the environment. | Expertise in respiratory risks in the built environment | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| TSI Incorporated | Logan Myers, Product Manager | logan.myers@tsi.com | kenneth.farmer@tsi.com | Shoreview, MN | TSI is the most prominent aerosol measurement technology company in the world, pioneering the successful development and commercialization of cutting-edge technologies across various applications and industries. TSI’s product catalog includes biosensors, aerosol & gas detection systems and other emerging technologies aimed at improving indoor air quality and energy efficiency, with the goal of making indoor spaces both healthier and more sustainable for our customers around the world. Our current research & development initiatives are aimed at finding a balance between these often-conflicting goals of energy efficiency and clean, comfortable spaces for occupants. Our team’s goal is to find an innovative balance where buildings can simultaneously achieve optimal energy performance and still excel in occupant health and wellness. | Since our founding in 1960, TSI has been at the cutting-edge of aerosol technology and IAQ solutions, with a proven track record for scaling these emerging technologies to bridge the gap between R&D and commercialization. To that end, we are actively seeking diverse teaming partners across any of the three primary research categories; our ideal collaborators are entities that bring a strong commitment to innovation along with a clear sense for how their products can fulfill unmet market needs. We aim to leverage our extensive market & research expertise and deep organizational resources to form a mutually beneficial alliance with partners that share our vision for introducing groundbreaking solutions to the air quality market, as we collectively push the boundaries of what’s possible in indoor environmental technology. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Biosortia Microbiomics | Ross Youngs, Founder | ryoungs@biosortia.com | chummell@biosortia.com | Dublin, OH | Please see: https://biosortia.com/industrial-scale-microbiome-mining-collaborative-innovations/ Direct Link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UbmStKQ_kBQxSfaETGYZoQXZssmFTr-_/view Biosortia stands as the unparalleled leader in "mining" microbe metabolites for crucial biochemical signaling. Supported by over $10M from esteemed entities like ARPA-E, DARPA, NIH, and partnerships with leading institutions, our validated platform positions Biosortia for industrial- scale microbiome drug discovery. Our compound library and AI screening program generate over 200 optimized leads and end-stage preclinical candidates annually, replenishing industry pipelines at unprecedented speed. | Assay development | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| PurpleAir Inc. | Adrian Dybwad, Founder and CEO | contact@purpleair.com | Draper, UT | Our mission at PurpleAir is "Delivering data that empowers". We empower people who collect, share or use real-time, hyper-local environmental data. We work with government agencies, researchers, commercial partners and community scientists to deploy air quality sensors and provide meaningful data to create impact. | We can bring value to the partnership by leveraging the breadth of research that has been performed using our sensors and data. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| Matregenix | Kevin Guo, COO | Kevin@matregenix.com | soliman@matregenix.com | Irvine, CA | Matregenix is focused on advancing nanofiber technology to enhance indoor air quality, specifically targeting the Healthy Building Controls & System Integration (TA3) area of the BREATHE Program. Our research involves developing PFAS-free nanofiber HEPA HVAC filtration systems designed to reduce bioaerosol exposure risks at optimal costs. These filters offer superior filtration efficiency and antimicrobial property, so it will significant improve the air quality, it also has a significant low pressure drop, making them energy efficient for integration into building HVAC systems. By leveraging real-time, data-driven technologies and optimization analytics, our nanofiber filters can seamlessly integrate with existing HVAC systems to provide responsive and cost-effective air quality management. Our goal is to create efficient, protective, and responsive building interventions that improve indoor air quality and occupant health. Through this research, Matregenix aims to contribute to the BREATHE Program's mission of reducing respiratory disease risks and enhancing the well-being of individuals in various building types and climates nationwide. | Matregenix is seeking collaboration with experts in two key areas to enhance our integrated air management systems: Technical Area 1 (creating indoor air biosensors) and Technical Area 2 (developing respiratory risk assessment software). We aim to develop comprehensive solutions that optimize the balance between response specificity, health protection, and operational costs. Our vision involves autonomous biosensors acting as vigilant monitors, continuously scanning indoor air for bioaerosols. The respiratory risk assessment software will process this data to evaluate health risks, guiding building control systems in implementing precise and targeted interventions. This collaboration will ensure interventions are specific, effective, and resource-efficient, maximizing occupant health and comfort. By teaming up with specialists in biosensor technology and risk assessment software, we aim to create a seamless, data-driven approach to indoor air quality management that aligns with the goals of the BREATHE Program. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) | Lew Radonovich, Deputy Director, Respiratory Health Division | mto5@cdc.gov | stm9@cdc.gov | Morgantown, WV | The Respiratory Health Division at NIOSH, an Institute at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), conducts multidisciplinary research to identify work-related respiratory hazards, assess workplace exposures, characterize health risks, and develop and disseminate effective interventions. We are studying germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) as an intervention to reduce indoor transmission of respiratory infections in workplaces. We seek to understand the most effective ways to safely utilize GUV to prevent or reduce respiratory illnesses among building occupants, including during outbreaks of respiratory infectious diseases. We view GUV technologies as an energy-efficient way to help meet the CDC recommendation to achieve at least 5 clean air changes per hour in occupied indoor spaces. Similarly, GUV could be a useful technology during disease outbreaks that may call for invoking ASHRAE standard 241 Infection Risk Management Mode. | We seek partners with expertise in indoor air biosensors (TA1) and respiratory risk assessment software (TA2) to complement our expertise in healthy building controls (TA3), including GUV, ventilation, human health risk assessment, translational science, and clinical research. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Giner, Inc. | Andrew Weber, Senior Project Scientist | aweber@ginerinc.com | aargun@ginerinc.com | Newton, MA | Giner, Inc. specializes in developing and commercializing electrochemical sensor instrumentation and diagnostics for a wide array of point-of-use applications. Often, these novel detection methods require engineering corresponding prototype devices for handheld or field-based use. We work extensively within the R&D field and are accustom to the fast-paced environment associated with contracted research. | Giner's wastewater pathogen and biomarker sensor would provide an in-situ option to assess the efficacy of a team's solution for mitigating the health complications linked to indoor bioaerosol exposure. By monitoring relevant biological targets in a building’s sewage utility return with high resolution, the user is provided with a real time understanding of the occupants’ pathogenic and allergen exposure. We have successfully demonstrated this wastewater monitoring technology for anonymized tracking of opioid use/abuse in communities, detection of disease biomarkers, and monitoring biomarkers for stress. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| University of Texas at Dallas | David J. Lary, Professor | david.lary@utdallas.edu | david.lary@utdallas.edu | Richardson, TX | We have developed a live test bed for holistic sensing that provides actionable insights across multiple scales, from wearables, to 24/7 monitoring throughout the inside of buildings, and across dense urban environments. Our wearable suites, which measure various aspects of the human autonomic response, can be combined with machine learning to accurately infer the concentrations of inhaled particulates of various size fractions and gasses. Real-time sensing within the duct work can be used to identify in real-time 1000 element fingerprints of individual bioaerosols (molds, pollens, and perhaps even virus clusters). Additionally, we have deployed an indoor air pathogen defense system, originally built for the NASA space station, which rapidly reduces viruses. This system, combined with smart air sensing at multiple locations both inside and outside buildings, paves the way for smart building control systems that ensure healthier air quality. | To partner with others to deploy holistic sensing that provides actionable insights to reduce absenteeism and optimize human cognitive and physical performance by preemptively prevent health issues (such as COVID) and providing optimum air quality. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Center for Aerosol Science & Technology (CAST) | Chang-Yu Wu, Director | cxw964@miami.edu | pbiswas@miami.edu | Coral Gables, FL | CAST at the University of Miami is a group of scientists and engineers focusing on the characterization of aerosol formation and transformation processes to determine the impact on the Environment, Climate, Health, and to utilize these processes to develop new materials to enable Energy, Environment, and Medical technologies. Teaming with our colleagues at University of Florida and industrial partners (Handix), we have developed an integrated air sampler and on-the-spot detection system that can accurately identify multiple respiratory virus aerosols simultaneously. We were also the first team that successfully collected viable SARS-CoV-2 during COVID-19 era. We have also developed a multi-angle and multi-wavelength bio-sensor for detecting bioaerosol. | We are looking for a partner in TA2 who can assess health risks of breathing a wide variety of bioaerosols using our state-of-the-science bioaerosol sampling and on-the-spot detection system. We have established partnership with Purdue University for Healthy Building Controls & System Integration. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Ginkgo Biosecurity | Andrew Franklin, Director, Strategy and Partnerships | afranklin@ginkgobioworks.com | Boston, MA | Ginkgo Biosecurity is building and deploying the next-generation biosecurity infrastructure and technologies that global leaders need to predict, detect, and respond to a wide variety of biological threats. Biological risk, whether natural or manmade, is increasing across the board, but we have the power to change the calculus. Ginkgo Canopy, our radar for biological anomalies, tracks the emergence and evolution of biological threats for early warning and deep insight. It's always-on, pervasive, and can be tuned to detect a large and growing set of pathogen targets, to help leaders worldwide understand the biological risks that are closest to home. And with Ginkgo Horizon, we can generate actionable biological intelligence that integrates insights from the global network of Canopy biomonitoring with our digital open-source intelligence and AI-powered modeling tools to help those leaders get the decision support they need. | We are looking for teaming partners on technical area 1 and technical area 3. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| Integrated Nanosystems Development Institute | Mark Woollam, Senior Research Scientist | mwoollam@iu.edu | agarwal@iupui.edu | Indianapolis, Indiana | The organization’s research focus area is to identify breath-based volatile organic compound (VOC) biomarkers and develop point-of-need biosensors for an array of medical conditions including infectious diseases caused by exposure to viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Canines can detect many different human conditions simply through smelling VOCs noninvasively expressed in complex matrices such as breath. Through identifying unique VOC biomarker panels in exhaled breath by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and pattern recognition via machine learning, our group develops sensitive and cross-selective arrays of biosensors that respond uniquely to a given VOC biosignature. To date, the team has built in-house VOC biomarker databases for diseases such as breast and prostate cancer, diabetes-induced hypoglycemia, cystic fibrosis, and even COVID-19. Regarding sensor development for these identified VOC targets, the organization has fabricated several sensing layers that are sensitive and selective to many biomarkers relating to hypoglycemia. Specifically for hypoglycemia sensors, our team has collaborated with Scosche Industries to develop a wearable prototype device that is currently being tested and evaluated in a clinical trial. The team is also in the process of fabricating other sensor elements for alternative biosignatures and conditions. | Our organization will strive to build indoor air sensing devices that can identify outbreaks of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. This will be accomplished through developing biosensors that can 1) passively monitor breath-based biomarkers from a group of individuals and other VOCs that are emitted directly by different pathogens in an indoor setting, and 2) actively detect breath-based biomarkers on an individual case basis through integration of sensors into a smart device in the form of a breathalyzer. Therefore, we are looking for teams to develop respiratory risk software (Technical Area 2) and optimize building systems to promote healthier indoor air quality (Technical Area 3). Regarding the development of risk software, our organization is looking for a team with expertise in biostatistical analysis that is familiar with the current regime for outdoor air quality indexing. The team envisions that pattern recognition through machine learning can be leveraged to analyze the sensor data (along with metadata) and correlate not only the presence of a pathogen, but also the relative severity and risk it presents. For optimizing systems for countermeasures, our team is looking for a collaborator with experience in indoor air ventilation and filtration. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| University of Hertfordshire | Loic Coudron, Reader in Digital Microfluidics | l.coudron@herts.ac.uk | i.d.johnston@herts.ac.uk | Hatfield, UK | The Centre for Research in Biodetection Technology (CRBT), based at the University of Hertfordshire is a leading UK centre for bio-aerosol collection and detection technology research. The multidisciplinary team focus on integrating advanced physics, engineering and microfluidics principles with biological detection techniques for development of prototypes for ‘real-life’ biodetection applications. The CRBT has an established track record of designing and testing next generation devices and systems for governmental and industrial collaborators for biological aerosol collection, sample processing and identification of pathogens for the protection of health. Research England has recognised the CRBT as a national centre of excellence. An award of £13.5 million will facilitate expansion of research-led development of biodetection technologies against harmful, airborne pathogens, creating the ‘Future Biodetection Technologies Hub’, led by Hertfordshire, bringing together UK bioaerosol experts from other leading UK universities and national stakeholders. The hub will address the technological leaps required to build safer, healthier, more resilient environments against bioaerosols: airborne particles of a biological origin including bacteria, viruses, fungi, pollen and toxins, to deepen our understanding of their impact on health, security and climate change. | The challenge posed by the BREATHE program requires a truly multidisciplinary approach. Our team possess the uncommon ability to develop novel technology-led solutions to “real-life” biodetection challenges, from concept design to system evaluation. We understand the need to respond to precise technical challenges specific to a customer’s requirement, through collaborative approaches with carefully selected partners. To address the broad scope of BREATHE, our bioaerosol, microfluidic sample processing and system integration capabilities (TA1) need to be complemented with the aligned scientific input of partners from across a range of expertise such as: multiplex biosensor, molecular diagnostics and bioassay development. We are also seeking collaborative partners who can address the respiratory risk assessment requirements of TA2, including indoor bioaerosol dispersion modelling, data stream integration and operational surveillance. Additionally, partners are required who can meet the challenges of tackling the healthy building controls & system integration of TA3, including effective building interventions for minimising risk and improving health outcomes, as well as stakeholders able to facilitate deployment and testing of the developed solution in “real-life” trials. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Lexim BioPhotonics Inc, InnovoXL Group of Companies | Laura Saward, EVP Health and Medical | lsaward@innovoxl.com | jpacak@innovoxl.com | Winnipeg, MB Canada | Lexim Biophotonics Inc has developed a suite of proprietary technologies for rapid and sensitive detection of broad range of infectious agents as well as enhanced U.V. technology for more effective air sterilization. This approach is amenable to automated detection and sterilization without the need for reagents or sample preparation. The pathogen detection technology uses a high efficiency multiplexing (HEMS) spectrometer that uses spectral fingerprints and new technologies to enhance specificity and sensitivity. The signal-to-noise ratio. is enhanced with amplified multiplex absorption spectroscopy (AMAS) coupled with a high efficiency multiplexing (HEMS) spectrometer. The spectral fingerprint is expanded with multi-dimensional spectroscopy (MDS), thereby enhancing specificity. Classification depends on a spectral database which may be extended to include an unlimited number of microbe types. The technology is responsive to emerging threats as spectral fingerprints of novel pathogen types may be propagated across a network on the same day the novel pathogen is isolated and fingerprinted. The method is intrinsically massively parallel to allow simultaneous measurement of multiple microbe types and their relative populations in near real time. | Based on our strengths in addressing TA1 with our technology platform to detect and sterilize pathogens, we are looking for partners with aerosol capture technologies that can place single particles for measurement onto our optical interface. We are looking for partners with deep experience in TA2 and risk assessment software platform. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Interlink Electronics | Melvin Findlay, Senior Sensor Chemist | mfindlay@iesensors.com | srao@iesensors.com | Irvine, CA | Interlink Electronics is a leading provider of printed electronics, HMI devices, and other sensor solutions. We offer a full range of standard products as well as the ability to create custom solutions by leveraging our expertise in prototyping, materials science, firmware and software development, sensor fusion, system integration, and manufacturing. We have a proven track record of sensor and solution development for applications across numerous and diverse industries, such as automotive, medical, industrial, and robotics fields. Interlink is also active within the burgeoning Internet of Things (IoT) sector, adopting the essential role of a full-service system integrator for IoT applications in areas such as multi-gas IAQ and environmental sensor networks. We have expanded our R&D capabilities and focus on innovation and the creation of innovative technologies. We have a broad portfolio of sensor technologies including forces sensors and related HMI solutions, with expertise in leading edge printed electronics, gas sensors, instruments and integrated systems. | Interlink is looking for partners with innovative biosensors for evaluation and integration into building control systems, expertise in aerosol dispersion modelling, diffusion mapping and real-time health risk analysis, as well as an established partner in building control systems to expedite integration into existing control systems. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Cambridge Consultants | Krishnan Parameswaran, Technology and Business Development | krishnan.parameswaran@cambridgeconsultants.com | john.taibi@cambridgeconsultants.com | Boston, MA | We are actively involved in technology development with partners designing medical technologies and smart infrastructure. Our experience includes smart implants, power systems, transportation networks, and carbon capture. For the BREATHE program, we will apply our modeling and system engineering capabilities to complement novel biological sensor technology. | We can provide risk assessment modeling capabilities for TA2 and system design expertise for TA3. We are seeking partners with novel sensor technology that we can complement. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Particle4x | Nicholas, Chief Engineer | nicholas.bravo-frank@particle4x.com | bravo095@umn.edu | Minneapolis, MN | Our research focuses on real-time air-borne particulate matter detection using inline digital holography. We have recently completed: high flow rate real-time air quality monitor for large (>5um) particulate matter, and a microfluidic based highly multiplexed bacterial classification sensor. | We are looking for TA1 teams which can compliment our technology, to design a comprehensive sensor package. For TA2 we can provide support, in simulation and risk assessment, but are not looking to take a leading roll. In general we are not looking to lead the project. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Domitilla Del Vecchio, Professor | ddv@mit.edu | hfdu@mit.edu | Cambridge, MA | Our current research area is in the on-site detection of airborne pathogens. We characterized a fieldable biosensing process that incorporates a fast RNA enrichment step in order to concentrate viral RNA in a small volume prior to RT-qPCR. Our process was integrated with pathogen collection using a compact, inexpensive, ESP air sampler, as a stand-alone system for early detection of airborne pathogens. To extract the viral RNA, we implemented a simple heat-extraction protocol to circumvent the need for commercial extraction kits, overall making the platform field-ready and relatively inexpensive. We designed this process to be simple, inexpensive, and fieldable, thus making continuous monitoring in low-resource settings viable. | We are looking for partners who can mediate the in-field tests of our biosensors in clinical settings and for partners who have product design and manufacturing capabilities. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Northwestern University | Erica Hartmann, Associate Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering | erica.hartmann@northwestern.edu | Evanston, IL | Our team comprises experts in indoor microbiology (Erica Hartmann), indoor environmental quality and occupant sensing and evaluation (Giorgia Chinazzo), fluid dynamics (K.-C. Kenneth Park), and biosensing (Julius Lucks). We have extensive experience in the development and implementation of molecular tools for pathogen detection, and we previously led research efforts on detection of target microorganisms against a complex background matrix, as well as untargeted studies of microbiomes of the built environment. We are currently developing bio-inspired, passive systems for highly efficient collection of airborne water condensates from air to trap bioaerosols, the contents of which can be identified in real time using robust and multiplexable RNA-based detection methods. | We are looking for academic/industrial partners in research collaboration and/or commercialization. We value and seek to promote human and environmental health through our impactful entrepreneurship and translational endeavors. For TA2, we are interested in teaming with partners who have the vision and expertise to drive the development of a risk assessment framework and the creation of user-friendly software. As needed, we have additional expertise within our institute for data analysis and modeling. For TA3, we are especially interested in partners who promote equitable access to high quality indoor environments. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| Mendon Group | Madhu Nair, Director - Strategic Growth | mnair@mendon.co | smenon@mendon.co | Rochester, NY | We are currently working on projects related to software systems and IT-infrastructure building for - schools and children are our domains. We have two Phase I SBIRs and waiting for Phase II funding. | We are looking for teaming partners with domain expertise who can complement our expertise in software development (digital health IT) and can with research study designs. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Carbon Reform | Jo Norris, Cofounder and CEO | jo@carbonreform.com | team@carbonreform.com | Philadelphia, PA | Building HVAC integration and controls, and retrofit hardware driving energy reduction for the built environment. We have monitoring capabilities for non-bio contaminants within buildings, such as CO2, VOCs, particulates, temp and humidity. We also have energy monitoring hardware at the equipment level, to track improvements and ROI. Our main product is an indoor air purification device which includes carbon dioxide capture, as a low-cost retrofit for building HVAC. This product can cut HVAC energy in half and drive less than 1-year returns for building owners. | We are looking for partners in TAs 1 and 2, who can bring medical device and risk analysis expertise to our engineering and HVAC expertise. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Illinois Institute of Technology, Built Environment Research Group | Brent Stephens, Professor and Chair, Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering | brent@iit.edu | Mohammad Heidarinejad: muh182@iit.edu | Chicago, IL | Our research group is focused on understanding and improving building energy and environmental systems. Our expertise includes indoor pollutant dynamics, infectious disease transmission modeling, human exposure assessment, air cleaning, automation and control of building energy and environmental systems (including semantic modeling, digital twins, and knowledge reasoning and representation), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and custom/low-cost sensor and controls development as well as custom software components (e.g., dashboards, APIs). Thus, we are best poised to address TA 2 and 3. We are especially interested in two scales of testing and implementing interventions: 1) large chamber scale and 2) real building scale. We have a large (36 cubic meters) environmental chamber focused on teaching and research in the design, operation, and control of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) components and systems that can serve as an experimental testbed for innovations in TA 1, 2, and 3. At the building scale, we have expertise and experience in working with community partners to evaluate interventions in homes (including in vulnerable Veteran populations in Chicago and farmworkers in California), K-12 schools, high-rises, healthcare, and campuses. Our modeling capabilities span from granular CFD to building energy simulation to infectious disease risk modeling. | We’re looking to partner with those with expertise relevant to TA 1 to integrate with building systems and deploy in real buildings. We bring connections to owners and managers of large portfolios of buildings, unique patient populations (e.g. through the Veterans Health Administration), experience in experimental design in buildings, and our technical understanding of buildings and their systems to this solicitation. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| OpenAeros LLC | Aaron Collins, President | aaronc@openaeros.com | sam@openaeros.com | Saint Paul, MN | OpenAeros is a solution-focused aerosol science innovation company founded to help bring clean and safe air to all. OpenAeros’ projects leverage our advanced, low-cost aerosol sensing instruments and open source hardware platforms such as the OpenCPC, the world’s first, open source, low-cost condensation particle counter. We believe that through the targeted use of collaborative and pro-social technologies, OpenAeros can help deliver real-time, in-situ infection control and measurement systems. In 2023, OpenAeros began development of the Aerostat™ to deliver an effective thermostat for infectious risk control. The Aerostat allows “set it and forget it” operation, providing real-time assessment of infectious particle removal rates while factoring in all forms of air flow within the space including HVAC (ventilation and filtration) performance, PACs, and germicidal UV systems. Crucially, the Aerostat performs this real-time monitoring without the use of intermittent challenge aerosols or tracers. Real-time occupancy information enables more precise adjustment of mitigation systems to ASHRAE 241 target than that offered by broad-based maximum occupancy estimates, creating savings on both operating and maintenance and enhancing building sustainability practices. The Aerostat is designed for integration with building management systems, providing real-time feedback on system performance and identifying and flagging issues for maintenance and service. | OpenAeros is seeking teaming partners in the T1 bio-sensor space, other T2 teams looking to add high fidelity data to their models, and T3 building systems integration teams. We offer a suite of technological, manufacturing, and aerosol science expertise that can help bridge across all technical ranges to contribute to building a complete end-end solution for the challenge. Our nimble, multidisciplinary, nine-person team is helmed by aerosol engineer Aaron Collins and united by a commitment to combining engineering skills with technological advances to make the world a better, safer, and more equitable place. The OpenAeros team brings a unique perspective and experience set including: -Expertise in aerosol science, instrumentation, and indoor air quality - In-house experience and expertise including electronic, mechanical, optical, and materials design capability -Onsite resources include a fully equipped in-house machine shop, aerosol and metrology lab, PCB assembly line, molding, and additive manufacturing facilities -An established and tightly-integrated network of global partners and contract manufacturers to enable low-volume production in-house and smooth transitions to high-volume contract manufacturers | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Grignard Pure, LLC | Etienne Grignard, Founder, CEO | etienne@grignardpure.com | brian.regan@grignardpure.com | Rahway, New Jersey | Grignar Pure, LLC has developed a unique air treatment solution for eliminating all airborne pathogens that is both effective and safe enough for use in all indoor spaces. The Grignard Pure System is a liquid with triethylene glycol as its active ingredient, aerosolized as a vapor using Company-certified dispersion devices, which emit the vapor at ultra low levels of visibility. EPA awarded Grignard Pure, LLC its first-ever emergency exemption for use against SARS-CoV-2; the Company is now pursuing EPA registration for use against multiple pathogens in all indoor, occupied spaces. Third-party efficacy testing at independent labs and at EPA's Office of Research and Development has consistently demonstrated its superior performance over other technologies including bipolarization, UV light, dry hydrogen peroxide, HEPA filters, and others. Grignard Pure is non-toxic: TEG has been in use for 80 years in numerous products (cosmetics) and environmen (fluids used for lighting effects in llive entertainment) and both FDA and EPA have established tolerance thresholds for TEG (2,000x above the efficacious level of concentration of Grignard Pure.) The Company conducted its major engineering proof-of-concept testing at Disney's New Amsterdam Theater on Broadway (establishing continuous efficacious treatment of 1Mcf.) Subsequent testing and real world deployments include: mass transit (Amtrak trains, metro commuter bus systems), houses of worship (integrated into the HVAC and using mobile devices); and multiple residential, industrial and commercial spaces. | We have established relationships via members of our Science (Rutgers, Johns Hopkins, NYU, others) and Engineering (JBB, STV, ME) Teams whose expertise spans TA1 and TA2 and who would contribute on multiple levels in the development of a fully-integrated solution given their individual experience and collective work in indoor air quality. We are looking for partners in the TA1 and TA 2 space and who could also serve as PI or PM, or would collaborate with us to identify the right project lead. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Silklab | Prof. Fiorenzo G. Omenetto, Professor, Director | Fiorenzo.Omenetto@tufts.edu | Giulia.Guidetti@tufts.edu | Medford, MA | Silklab research focuses on materials that can be employed at the interface between technology and life sciences. The laboratory’s goal is to provide innovation and solutions of global societal impact through advances in naturally derived, abundant, sustainable materials. The core research is based on advanced material processing, prototyping, and manufacturing based on structural proteins, with specific focus on silk and other biomaterials. Over the past decade, the laboratory has pioneered biomaterials-based applications in edible and implantable electronics, food preservation, energy harvesting, wearable sensors, compostable technology, distributed environmental sensing, medical devices and therapeutics, biospecimen stabilization, advanced medical diagnostics, and structural components. Recent developments related to environmental sensing include modular ways to detect bacteria and toxins in the environment using silk-based inks that can be printed on a wide range of materials and produced at scale to fabricate sensors that can assume a seemingly endless variety of forms including wearables and drones. Simple patterns can then be read out with a smartphone and immediate image analysis. | We are looking for partners with expertise in TA-2 and in TA-3. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Texas A&M University | Zheng O'Neill, Professor | zoneill@tamu.edu | College Station, TX | One focus of the lab is on research and development for Smart and Healthy Building & Wellbeing in the built environment through building control interventions (e.g., smart ventilation, filtering, air purifier, etc.) through modeling, controlled laboratory testing, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and field demonstration. We led a DOE/ARPA-E SENSOR project for a nationwide analysis and field demonstrations of occupant-centric controls using prototyped sensors in commercial and residential buildings. Our team is also involved with the ASHRAE standard and guideline development through research projects (e.g., CO2 based demand-controlled ventilation, dedicated outdoor air system). The Texas A&M Smart and Connected Homes testbed features two identical 1,200 sqft modular homes. This unique setup allows for the testing of technologies for smart and healthy buildings through a side-by-side comparison and quantification, offering a compelling opportunity for research and development. | We are looking for someone with expertise on TA1. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| Patient Knowhow, Inc. | Devabhaktuni Srikrishna, CEO and Founder | sri.devabhaktuni@gmail.com | sri@patientknowhow.com | San Mateo, CA | We aim to translate the agnostic biodetection methods proven in wastewater into the air using low-cost, high-ACH air purifiers as the bioaerosol collectors. In the past, government agencies, companies, and academics struggled to do daily pathogen-agnostic sequencing of environmental media including indoor air. These root causes why the Pentagon and others struggled to do this are resolved through the combination of techniques in my paper below ("spike-triggered virtualization" and AI). Please see my recent publication and webpage for details https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/hs.2023.0048 https://www.patientknowhow.com/safe.html Both a recent preprint and peer-reviewed publication by team Texas are an experimental proof-of-concept of how pathogen-agnostic testing can be done at scale, regardless of the media including air or surfaces, even though it was demonstrated first in the context of wastewater. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.05.10.24307179v1 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-42064-1 | We are looking for partners with expertise in agnostic metagenomic sequencing of bioaerosols and risk assessment software. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| AirBox, Inc. | Adam Smith, President | asmith@airboxamerica.com | Statesville, NC | AirBox is a technical leader and solutions provider for Air Quality in the commercial occupied space. Tim Self, Founder and Lead Engineer of AirBox has 35 years of experience in micro-contamination settings associated with Semiconductor and Life Science processes environments. Self also founded AM Technical Solutions (amts.com, Austin, TX), a Semiconductor Industry Leader in environmental certification and commissioning in 1994 where he was active in the development of sampling techniques and equipment selection for submicron aerosol particle characterization and low part per billion molecular contamination of process environments. All AirBox Air Cleaning Devices and Solutions are designed and built to the scientific standards required by the aforementioned industries and environments. | As leaders in clean indoor air, we are here to be a resource and trusted partner for those looking to provide long-term sustainability and energy efficiency in ventilation as our country enters the clean air revolution. AirBox is the total solutions partner from Building Assessment/Audit, Compliance, Ventilation Standards, Verification Testing, Monitoring, Engineering, and Solutions to ensure Health and Safety every day including during resilient times. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; | |
| Kitware Inc. | Jeffrey Baumes, Director of Data and Analytics | jeff.baumes@kitware.com | Clifton Park, NY | Kitware's Data and Analytics team is a research-oriented software engineering team fluent in designing and developing effective scientific data systems of all kinds, with extensive experience in biomedical data. We collaborate with top-tier universities on a regular basis, and have a strong focus on robust data systems and data organization, in addition to building custom scalable data visualizations. Current related work includes a web portal for microbiome data, and novel layered urban planning geospatial visualizations which integrate with climate simulations and other urban data sources such as population density. The team has participated in many DARPA programs including programs for large data visualization, custom search engines, and novel ML interfaces. We have visualization experts and UI/UX designers on staff, and Kitware has a strong breadth of technical expertise, including AI/ML, scientific computing, and medical specialists. | We are a good fit for a research-heavy team that needs expertise in building interactive, visualization-centric, robust software applications for both domain scientists (TA1-facing) and building system operators (TA3-facing). We would expect to need a partner in TA2 for specialized analytics and modeling (the first few TA2 headings in the RFP) as we would be focused on integrating those models with scientific dashboards, visualization, data management, data infrastructure, data fusion from other sources, integrated AI/ML computation, UI/UX, and usability. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| Massachusetts General Hospital/Boston Children's Hospital | Peggy Lai, Associate Professor of Medicine | plai@mgh.harvard.edu | lai.peggy.s@gmail.com | Boston, MA | Our multidisciplinary academic research group has over a decade of school-based research on indoor air quality and health, including clinical trials of environmental interventions such as the efficacy of placebo-controlled portable HEPA cleaners on reducing indoor allergen exposure and asthma in children (NCT02291302). In recent years, we have developed rigorous highly multiplexed ddPCR assays for respiratory virus detection in bioaerosols. We offer rigorous school based trial design, existing approved IRB protocols for school-based indoor air quality research, rigorous viral detection assays against which biosensors can be benchmarked, health-related research expertise to validate risk prediction models, and a site for future school-based efficacy trials. | - First and foremost interest in improving indoor air quality in schools - Engineering expertise in development and manufacture of autonomous air biosensors and building engineering controls, with capability for future large scale manufacturing - exposure risk model development | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Breathe Chicago Center, University of Illinois Chicago | Jerry A. Krishnan, MD, PhD, Professor and Director | jakris@uic.edu | Chicago, IL | Breathe Chicago Center is a multi-disciplinary clinical research program at the University of Illinois Chicago. We are a prime or collaborating unit in multi-center cohort studies and clinical trials that are aimed at improving health care delivery and testing new interventions for patients with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), COVID-19, and other respiratory conditions. We have expertise in human-centered design (user-informed design), respiratory and infectious disease-related health assessments, remote monitoring, behavioral science, design and implementation of decentralized and real-world effectiveness trials, single IRBs and regulatory frameworks for multi-center human subjects research, participant and community engagement, U.S. and international clinical guidelines, and project management. Our research teams often include representatives of affected populations (patients, caregivers, patient advocacy organizations) in urban and rural areas of the U.S. who are disproportionately affected, vulnerable, and under-represented in biomedical research. Our research team has access to homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and other built environments across several U.S. climate zones relevant to ARPA-H-SOL-24-107. Example of a multi-center U.S.-based national study in respiratory health led by the Breathe Chicago Center: https://www.reliance-study.org/ (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04069312) | (1) R&D for indoor air biosensor (TA1) (2) R&D for indoor air quality index software (TA2) (3) Economic analysis (TA3) | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| SpecTree Inc | Igor Novosselov, Principal Scientist | inovosselov@uw.edu | yanac@spectree.com | Seattle, Washington | PI (Novosselov) has extensive publications and patents in aerosol science. Spectree has an extensive patent portfolio and several active federally sponsored projects (NIH, DoD, IARPA), including: Aerosol front-end for MassSpec or low-cost sensors (collection efficiency >90% dp=50nm-5um) Bioaerosol collection and delivery to microfluidic assay Multispectral sensors for aerosol chemical composition (PAH, VOC) Low-cost sensor networks: personal, indoor, and outdoor monitoring | Partners in technology commercialization and integration in a broad range of applications. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Kromek | Ben Cantwell, Innovation Director | ben.cantwell@kromek.com | jamie.marsay@kromek.com | Sedgefield, UK | As part of the DARPA Sigma+ program, we developed a automated autonomous system for the agnostic detection of potential biowarfare agents. Using a third generation nucleic acid sequencer, we created an end-to end system, designed to travel around a city on a bus etc, which sampled the air, concentrated, lysed and amplified the DNA, read the genomic sequences and carried out a bioinformatics pipeline to identify any potential threats. We have also developed an AI method for anticipating the pathogenic potential of previously unseen sequences from the genomic data. Since this project we have further developed the technology for other applications, and are currently working to add additional capabilities to the platform technology. | We are looking for partners who can take the genomic data we create and carry out respiratory risk assessment, and also partners who can use this info to effect mitigations. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Envirotech Solutions | Derrick Sears, Owner, CTO | derrick@envirotech.solutions | Somerset, KY | We have developed an integrated air sampling device using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), representing significant advancements in bioaerosol detection and pathogen monitoring. This system leverages LAMP's rapid and specific DNA amplification capabilities to detect multiple pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, yeast, and molds, with high accuracy (>90%) and sensitivity. The autonomous system features automated air sampling, DNA/RNA extraction, amplification, and optical detection, delivering results within 60 minutes. The use of multiple primers recognizing 6-8 DNA regions enhances specificity, making LAMP a robust alternative to PCR. Currently, the system can run 96 tests with no human intervention, with plans to expand to 1152 tests without intervention. Test intervals can be programmed for any combination of timing. The system includes automated mechanisms to prevent cross-contamination and provides post-test disinfection. Air samples are processed in real-time, and the results are displayed on an LCD screen and transmitted to an open cloud software platform for remote monitoring and analysis. This cloud-based integration allows for continuous pathogen monitoring, real-time alerts, and comprehensive reporting, ensuring a versatile and reliable solution for maintaining healthier indoor environments. | We are seeking teammates for TA2 who can leverage our current automated reporting software to meet the TA2 requirements. Additionally, we are looking for TA3 team members specializing in intervention technologies that can utilize signals from the software to deploy intervention strategies. Our sensor is already developed, and we have a team dedicated to its further development. Therefore, our focus will primarily be on the software and intervention aspects | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) | Michelle Farrington, Chief Strategy Officer | mfarrington@affoa.org | michael@affoa.org | Cambridge, MA | AFFOA and our 150 member ecosystem have: Expertise in developing and optimizing filtration materials properties for particle, pathogens and aerosol capture. Develop materials that can facilitate integration of biosensors and sensing systems into filtration materials, wearables and filtration infrastructure products. Testing and evaluation of material performance Scale up of innovative processes and materials into manufacturable processes. Access and connection with domestic manufacturing supply chains. Previous experience in PPE scaleup, advanced material development for PPE including alternative material development to eliminate supply chain bottlenects as well as sustainable (compostable) materials. | AFFOA seeks teaming partners with unique biosensors seeking to collaborate to incorporate those sensors into advanced textile materials. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Biobot Analytics, Inc. | Kaitlyn Hess Jimenez, Senior Director, Lab and R&D | kait@biobot.io | tmcdonald@biobot.io | Cambridge, MA | Our team develops laboratory assays to detect and quantify pathogens and chemical biomarkers from wastewater matrix. We use the data to develop novel insights on human health in real-time, and in particular, we effectively measure the impact of interventions on a hollistic, community wide scale. Our group would be a complement to any teams looking to measure the efficacy of their intervention. | We are looking for partners in TA 1 who are developing air-based sensors, TA 2 who are building software, and TA 3 who can integrate the real time data to trigger an intervention. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| University of Kansas Medical Center | Ruth Sosnoff, PhD, MBA , Executive Director Strategic Research Initiatives | rsosnoff@kumc.edu | nloskutova@kumc.edu | Kansas City, Kansas | University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) is a major public research and teaching institution spanning 50 acres within metropolitan Kansas City. It includes extensive research and clinical facilities, such as an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, an NIH-designated Alzheimer’s Disease Center, a CTSA Program hub, and the All of Us Research Program: Heartland Consortium. KUMC-affiliated University of Kansas Health System (UKHS) is the region’s premier academic health system, offering comprehensive care through over 140 hospital and clinic locations, including its flagship hospital in Kansas City, Kansas. KUMC’s research spans cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, aging and cognitive impairments, developmental disorders, pediatrics, reproductive health, mental health, and more. The substantial agricultural industry in Kansas contributes to high levels of air pollutants, including pollen, particulate matter, ozone, and fungal spores. As a result, KUMC’s researchers and clinicians have unique expertise in allergy, pulmonology and respiratory diseases, and conditions linked to polluted air. KUMC’s methodological expertise includes clinical trials, investigator-initiated human research studies, validation and comparative effectiveness of health interventions, medical record analysis, patient-reported outcomes, and research evaluation. | KUMC is seeking partnerships with organizations and individuals who have expertise in designing, building, testing, manufacturing, and installing prototype indoor air biosensors, as well as those with innovative software approaches to assess the risk associated with bioaerosol exposure. KUMC will contribute clinical and academic expertise in a broad range of respiratory diseases and clinical research areas, as well as in collecting various types of data, including Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER), respiratory illness events, occupant absenteeism data, individual occupant health data, occupant health surveys, wearable device biodata, nasal swab testing and other. Additionally, KUMC offers clinical trial expertise for designing and conducting HIPAA-compliant field trials involving human subjects. Furthermore, KUMC, the University of Kansas Health System and their affiliated organizations have multiple locations in urban, suburban, and rural areas across Kansas, enabling the identification of suitable buildings for field trials. This provides an opportunity to test the technologies in real-world settings, encompassing diverse communities and building types within a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. | Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Glaucus Inc. | Elisa Riedo, Professor | elisa.riedo@glaucus.tech | gmagaud@glacus.tech | New York, NY | Development of fully integrated microchips based on field effect transistors for multiplex detection and continuous monitoring of human health threats in liquid and air. | We are looking for teams with molecular biology expertise in antibodies or aptamers for developing robust and reproducible biosensing. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Cromtec Cyber Solutions - dba The Cromtec Group | Troy Cromwell, Program Leader | troy.cromwell@cromteccyber.com | Diamond.houghl@cromteccyber.com | Houston, TX | Utilizing Carbon Nanotube Chip technology and both breath and VOC biomarkers, we are creating IAQ and Handheld technology to detect harmful pathogens and diseases. Working with our partners, we are conducting clinical trials that will determine validity of VOC detection, like C-Diff, Staph and Covid-19, to start. We will conduct ongoing clinical trials for additional pathogens and diseases. We incorporate this data along with NASA licensed MERRA climate database info, and our proprietary AI algorithms to deliver recommended actions to mitigate risk and protect our citizens that implement our solution. We will deliver additional approved pathogens to all of our sensors based on client needs. | Sensor companies with open technology, genomic and/or other data sources that improve the accuracy of recommendations to improve air quality and overall safety. Depending on overall scope, we may need delivery and implementation partners. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Piera Systems Inc. | Howard Pakosh, Business Development | howard.pakosh@pierasystems.com | Scottsdale, AZ | Piera Systems’ mission is to make air quality measurement as accurate, simple, and pervasive as temperature, enabling a major improvement in the health of all humans. The IPS family of intelligent particulate matter sensors uses a custom, patented particle-counting microchip to determine particulate matter's size, count, and mass. Then, by utilizing AI/ML techniques, Piera can identify pollution sources such as vape, smoke, cooking, construction dust, and more, either at the edge or in the cloud. Our SenseiAQ air quality monitoring platform monitors and alerts users to poor air quality and pollution events. | Piera Systems is looking for the following opportunities for collaboration and partnership: TA1—partners who are interested in working with and testing our real-time continuous particle-counting technology and platform for specific use cases. TA2 – to enable our team to further develop algorithms that support multi-data stream predictive modeling capabilities, we need partners that can provide risk assessment models based on agreed-upon indoor air substance/characteristic safety thresholds. TA3 – Testing and collaboration with BMS technology partners on real-time system adjustments based on real-time environmental data. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |
| GreenVision Systems (GVS) | Danny Moshe, CEO | danny@greenvs.com | ronits@greenvs.com | GVS Inc. Reston VA , GVS Ltd Tel-Aviv, Israel | GVS developed and validated bio aerosols detection and identification technologies. Our automatic systems sensing (5up to 50 lpm) indoor air and provide results within 5-10 minutes. Our biothreat near rale time early warning system can detect and quantifying different types of bio aerosols stimulatingly. We conducted successful field tests with other groups.. GVS have ISISO-13485, ISO-9002 and Israeli FDA Certificated. | GVS is seeking strategic partner is the TA2 and TA3 spaces that have experience in multi-sites operation and management program. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Systematic Bioengineering Laboratory, Penn State University | Pak Kin Wong, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Surgery | pxw28@psu.edu | nsellakapu@pennstatehealth.psu.edu | University Park, Pennsylvania | My laboratory and our collaborators at Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Southern Illinois, and GE Global Research, have developed fluorescence-based, single-cell bacterial pathogen detection systems. The single cell biosensors identify common bacterial pathogens based on only a small number of bacteria. We have developed a library of over 30 probes and a barcode detection scheme for quickly detecting these common pathogenic species. The scheme is scalable and can be adopted for new species easily. We will be joined by clinical pulmonologist Dr. Rebecca Bascom, who was Co-PI of the PCORI Pulmonary CRG. She and her colleagues will provide clinical input and their extensive expertise in both basic and clinical research in respiratory diseases, occupational & environmental health, and public health. | We are looking for teams seeking expertise and resources to develop, validate, and deploy biosensors. Our systems are capable of detecting bacteria and fungi. Viruses are possible but require some modifications. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| Lumalier UV Air and Surface Disinfection / Evergreen UV | David Skelton, President | dskelton@evergreenuv.com | dsears@evergreenuv.com | Memphis, TN | Lumalier UV is a 60+ yr old Tennessee full-service manufacturer of advanced Germicidal UVC technology. We engineer and manufacture germicidal fixtures for the reduction and elimination of all-known pathogens. Our unique predictive software considers multiple AHU variables, including specific pathogens-of-concern, air speed and volume, MERV filter ratings, UV intensity, duct length/volume and UV energy dwell time to provide precise germicidal UV metering for the inactivation of airborne pathogens. Lumalier features wireless communication technology to modulate precise and variable doses of UVC energy based on facility risk assessment. Our UVC systems feature wireless BMS communication capabilities to provide UV intensity readings, hour metering, and automation integration. In-duct systems are engineered with modular, plug and play construction for ease of installation and service while greatly reducing installation costs. Our complete line of advanced-technology upper-air fixtures are undergoing re-engineering to provide the highest possible germicidal output to meet UL-88O2 and ASHRAE 241 IRMM standards, while ensuring complete safety to occupants. With over 60 years of 254 nanometer UVC germicidal expertise, we are beta-testing 222nanometer and LED UVC technology for integration into our complete offerings in mid-2024. Lumalier has portable HEPA-based stand-alone IAQ products Lumalier uses only non-proprietary germicidal lamps and ballasts. | We are exploring a possible partnership with a specific manufacturer of TA-1 bio-sensor technology, but open to discussion with other TA-1 providers. Our primary need is to partner with a software-savvy company that can seamlessly integrate our UVC pathogen reduction technology and communication capabilities into the stated TA-2 requirements, thereby providing respiratory risk-assessment based on bio-sensor readings, and then communicating that risk to our TA-3 building system technology to provide occupants with a safer environment using in-room stand-alone HEPA filtration and / or advanced in-duct and/or upper-room UVC Technology to reduce occupant risk. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| DAS, Inc. | Robert Plemons, Director of Engineering | robertp@dasystemsinc.com | cindyc@dasystemsinc.com | Fulton, MD | DAS designs customized mechanical and electrical subsystems for commercial, military, and space applications. Our core capabilities include prototype development, limited-scale technology integration, independent assessment and testing, and transition to full-scale production. Over 20 years of experience in the CBRNE detection space (DARPA Immune Building, DHS Detect-to-Protect, Pentagon Shield, JPEO AVCAD and MPCAD). | DAS is seeking to partner with novel technology developers looking for systems development assistance from a company with experience and success in detector development. We provide scientists and engineers focused on system development and CBRNE testing expertise. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Michigan State University | Morteza Mahmoudi, Associate Professor | mahmou22@msu.edu | East Lansing, Michigan | Development of an automated system for isolation and purifications of airborne viruses; example: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsnano.3c01677 | A business partner to creating advance and userfriendy version of our automated system | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; | |
| National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) | Jialei Shen, Associate | jialei.shen@nist.gov | lisa.ng@nist.gov | Gaithersburg, MD | The Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation Group at NIST develops computer simulation programs and measurement procedures to better understand air and contaminant transport phenomena in buildings. These tools support industry efforts to improve environmental conditions in buildings cost-effectively. Our group includes many prestigious researchers and scientists with extensive experience in IAQ and public health. We have excellent multi-scale test facilities and environmental chambers that can be used for testing biosensors with collaborators, contributing to TA 1. Our team has developed the robust and widely recognized IAQ modeling software, CONTAM, as well as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools and respiratory risk assessment tools. We are willing to share our expertise with collaborators in the respiratory risk analysis software development of the project (TA 2). Additionally, our group has rich experience with ventilation and air cleaning solutions for controlling IAQ and mitigating infection risk (TA 3). Our exceptional facilities can be used for testing control strategies onsite. With the recent development of CONTAM APIs, we can implement advanced control strategies for building systems. The group has successfully led numerous projects to address key IAQ issues over decades. Today, we are seeking collaborations in TA 1 & 2 to address novel IAQ challenges. | TA 1 Indoor Air Biosensors: We are seeking colleagues who can develop and deploy sensors for detecting bio-threats such as viruses, pathogens, and bio-organisms. We have excellent multi-scale test facilities and environmental chambers that can be utilized for developing and testing biosensors. Additionally, we have a strong history of collaboration with other experts in biosciences and materials at NIST, and we can reach out to them as needed to support this work. TA 2 Respiratory Risk Analysis Software Development: We are seeking colleagues developing respiratory risk analysis software. Our team has developed CONTAM, and we are more than willing to share our expertise with collaborators TA 2. We look forward to collaborating with experts in this technical area to enhance our capabilities and outcomes. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Mologic Inc (D/B/A Global Access Diagnostics) | Dr. Abby Jones, Senior Research Scientist | abby.jones@globalaccessdx.com | andrew.wheeler@globalaccessdx.com | New Gloucester, ME | Mologic Inc. is a small business which, along with our parent company, has the experience and the technology to create lateral flow tests and platform developments for pressing health needs. We have a successful profile in developing and manufacturing rapid lateral flow immunoassays with innovative integrated plastics in many distinct configurations and markets. We operate a full QMS and is ISO 13485 accredited. Mologic has low to high volume immunoassay manufacturing and recombinant protein production capabilities. Furthermore, we have expanded our research development into CRISPR based diagnostics with one program focused on non-amplified nucleic acid detection. | We are looking for a partner or partners who can help us develop respiratory risk assessment software (TA2) and optimize building systems for healthier indoor air (TA3) | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors; |
| InspectIR Systems, Inc. | John Redmond, President | jredmond@inspect-ir.com | Tim Wing, twing@inspect-ir.com | Frisco, TX | InspectIR Systems is leveraging mass spectrometry and miniaturized technology paired with machine learning to create near real-time solutions capable of non-invasive detection. These detection methods identify chemical compounds and biomarkers which are indicitive of disease, drugs or other environmental threats. | Building systems and controls manufacturer and/or integrator. Companies/individuals focused on indoor air quality/pollution solutions to elevate building performance, occupant health and productivity; including risk mitigation and intervention strategies. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; |
| Verizon | Karen Kimbro, Sr. Client Partner, HHS Strategic and Innovative Business Development | Karen.kimbro@verizon.com | joel.daniels@verizon.com | ashburn, VA | We support a number of research initiatives that have a digital or communications component, these range from facilities, health care applications, mobility solutions to IoT implementation. | The BREATHE program is going to require network and communications support accross all three TA's. TA1 will require the devices to be examined for the network consumption and optimal connectivity strategy in addition to security considerations as well as support for chamber testing. TA2 will require an environment that enables the integration of the software platform with the devices, this will require testing to ensure that all consumption and security considersations are address. TA3 will require as-is building assessment and advisement on needed connectivity and security changes to effectively onboard and operate the new sensor ecossytem. We would be looking to provide this assistance to the prime bidders. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Shreis Scalene Therapeutics LLC | Meena Augustus, Founder CEO & CSO | maugustus@shreis.com | john.augustus@shreis.com | Gaithersburg, MD | Shreis Scalene Therapeutics LLC (SSTx) has brought to market, an innovative device, the Scalene Hypercharge Corona Canon (SHYCOCAN®) designed for the ‘physical attenuation’ in real-time, of the Corona family of viruses, including human SARS-CoV2, feline & equine coronaviruses, and human and avian Influenza,. Active sales was enabled under USFDA Enforcement Discretion for Air Purifiers during the COVID-19 PHE (2020-2023). The device is a CE marked, Class I device in other regulatory markets, globally i.e. Europe, Canada, Mexico, Chile, Australasia, UK etc. Biological validation of the technology was carried out in US-based and International BSL-2 and 3 labs. It is not an ionizer, ozone, UV, or plasma generator. No replaceable HEPA filters are used. The device fills an urgent unmet need for a simple, portable, sensitive methodology (with no consumables), to prevent virus outbreaks in humans and in poultry/livestock, safely. Exposure to emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 and imminent threat of transmissibility in humans, of avian Influenza, is of concern. Atmospheric and surface contamination of infective SARS-CoV-2, and avian and human Influenza needs better control countermeasures. We are currently seeking EPA authorization as a pesticidal device in enclosed, resilient environments, collecting real world evidence from areas where the devices were deployed. | SSTx proposes teaming for the TA3 component, with prime performers and/or Government entities, as sub-performers. As ARPA-H has ably identified, the main problem is the indoor air quality where people (primarily the aged and children) spend more than 90% of their time. The spread of infectious and life-threatening respiratory pathogens can have disastrous consequences, as experienced during the SARS-CoV2 and Influenza pandemics, over several decades. The real-time inactivation of respiratory pathogens using our innovative photon-mediated electron emission (PMEE) technology, has been extensively evaluated for safety and efficacy. One device covers 1,000 sq.ft. /10,000 cu.ft of enclosed space. Proprietary digital sensing equipment that measures the functional field-mapping for device performance and effectiveness, will be deployed along with each SHYCOCAN installation. Real-world evidence gathered over the 3 years of the SHYCOCAN device being deployed in homes, small businesses, retail & real estate, clinics, hospitals, funeral homes and other high-risk areas, will add to the planning of smart building systems of the future. Effective sensor-enabled monitoring (TA1), supported with sophisticated software systems (TA2) and deployed in specific environments (TA3) is a daunting task that requires the collaboration of teams bringing different innovative technologies to bear, for the success of ARPA-H’ BREATHE PS. | Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air; |
| Sensio Air Inc | Dr. Eve Tamraz, Chief Scientist | eve@wlab.io | Sunnyvale, CA | Sensio Air is specialized in indoor air quality monitoring and has developed the only sensor able to identify and classify airborne allergens in real-time with no consumables. | We are looking to team up with experts in bioaerosols to push the detection limit of our sensor past the 1 micron. | Technical area 1: creating indoor air biosensors;Technical area 3: optimizing building systems for healthier indoor air;Technical area 2: developing respiratory risk assessment software; | |