In response to urgent calls from regional, provincial, and federal authorities, the Lewis Research Group is redirecting its expertise in rapid diagnostic testing and device development/fabrication to address critical needs in the fight against COVID-19. Our facilities include microbiology labs, engineering/prototyping facilities, and advanced mass spectrometry instrumentation. We will be using these resources to:

Fast-track the development of a 10 minute mass spectrometry assay to detect COVID-19
Develop a new virus culture system that can be used in labs without high-level biosecurity clearance to accelerate nation-wide research on COVID-19 antiviral drugs
Leverage our fabrication capabilities to develop and prototype nasopharyngeal swabs to help mitigate the critical shortage of these swabs.

Our facilities are in operation under the strictest adherence to social distancing guidelines and we are complying closely with all directives from the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services.

Stay tuned for further updates!