Validation of cervical stiffness characterization for prenatal care and preterm birth diagnostics
Pregnolia was founded in 2016, as a spin-off from the ETH Zurich and aims to be the first company selling a diagnostic device to determine the risk of Premature Birth (PTB) based on the measurements of cervical tissue stiffness to provide a solution that is usable by any woman undergoing routine pregnancy examinations. The goal of CervixCare is to scientifically and technologically characterize the gynaecological device in terms of measuring functions and gather clinical evidence to validate the diagnostic value of the medical device.The uniqueness of the system relies on its novel methodology to detect the risk of PTB, as there is no other commercially available solution based on the cervix stiffness.
 
The proposed recruitment of an Innovation Associate in CervixCare will have significant impact on the business opportunities of Pregnolia by bringing in lacking expertise for the validation and certification of Pregnolia’s System into a diagnostic medical device.  The envisaged grant will help to overcome the recruitment barriers of being a relatively unknown, small start-up enterprise that cannot compete with larger companies due to limited visibility, salary, recruitment budget and (perceived) career opportunities.

CervixCare requires a multi-disciplinary scientist that understands the biomechanics for soft tissue, is able to model/simulate data by performing experiments and is able to use data for complex requirements for clinical validation and regulation of the diagnostic medical device. The main added value of the CervixCare project for the IA is the opportunity to pursue the transition from an academic environment focusing on basic research to a business environment focusing on developing competitive and cutting-edge products. Next to this, the IA will have the opportunity to influence and participate in the early stages of a new and innovative diagnostic device company.