Dr Manu Prakash, of bioengineering faculty at Stanford Univeristy,  received a $100,000 grant from  Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to promote the exploration of bold and innovative ways to improve global health. Prakash is a 2002 computer science graduate of the Indian Institutes of Technology.

Prakash and his team in field are testing an ultra-low-cost paper microscope designed for disease diagnostics. These lightweight, print-and-fold “Foldscopes” can be shipped in a flat configuration and assembled in minutes. Device testing will be conducted in India, Thailand and Uganda, and will allow user feedback to help refine the design for mass production.

If the pilot is successful, Prakash will have the opportunity to apply for a follow-on grant of up to $1 million.