This talk will explore the development of next-generation diagnostic technologies for infectious diseases, with a particular emphasis on point-of-care applications and deployment in low- and middle-income countries. It will discuss the integration of molecular biology, engineering, and data-driven approaches to create rapid, affordable, and scalable tools for both clinical and field settings. Drawing on recent work within the Fleming Initiative, the Wellcome Trust–funded CAMO-Net, and the NIHR Global Health Research Group on Digital Diagnostics for African Health Systems, the talk will highlight efforts to translate cutting-edge research into real-world impact, addressing critical challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, outbreak preparedness, and equitable access to diagnostics. The presentation will also reflect on the translational pathway from academia to industry.

Dr Jesus Rodriguez Manzano is an Associate Professor (Reader) in Diagnostic Technologies and Deputy Director of the Centre for Antimicrobial Optimisation at Imperial College London. His research bridges molecular diagnostics, data science, and clinical translation, focusing on technologies to tackle antimicrobial resistance and emerging infectious diseases. He is an Expert Advisor to the Fleming Initiative and serves as Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of ProtonDx, an Imperial College London spin-out company delivering rapid molecular diagnostic tools from bench to field.

profiles.imperial.ac.uk/j.rodriguez-manzano