Info Patronale · No. 336 · February 2026

A portable fluorescence microscope for rapid diagnostics

Led by Morgane Loretan, this Fribourg project aims to transform plant health and veterinary diagnostics with a portable microscope capable of detecting a single molecule, combining speed and reliability. Morgane is a researcher in optics, nanotechnology and biophotonics. A graduate of EPFL and the University of Fribourg, she works in the Photonic Nanosystems laboratory, where she conducts research on optical systems and DNA-based nanotechnology. The project stems from Knowledge Transfer of Technologies (KTT), which aims to turn academic research results into concrete solutions for the market.

What inspired you to create your project?

We started from an observation: current solutions for detecting diseases in crops or livestock are either reliable but slow and hard to transport, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), or fast but not very sensitive, such as test strips. Until now, no one had managed to combine these qualities in a single solution. That is the challenge that motivated us.

Can you briefly explain what your innovation is?

We have developed a prototype portable microscope smaller than a shoebox, battery-powered and compatible with any smartphone. The device is combined with specific tests and a mobile app. Together, they will deliver rapid, sensitive diagnostics directly on site, without going through a laboratory. The microscope will be sold once, the tests according to need, and the app will run under licence. It is this combination that makes the solution accessible, reliable and easy to use.

Who are your current customers and what are your potential markets?

Our first pilot tests target farmers, for crops and livestock. The plant health and veterinary markets are growing by almost 10% a year, which opens up considerable prospects. However, our technology is flexible: in the long term, we are also targeting human diagnostics and the food industry.

How does your solution differ from existing ones in your field?

It is portable, fast, reliable and sensitive, while remaining affordable. Our tests are versatile and can be adapted to different diseases. In addition, the app will offer real-time alerts and encourage collective monitoring, which is unprecedented.

What are the next steps?

The goal for 2026 is to optimise the microscope for field use, develop the first test for sugar beet and launch the beta version of the app. We have a letter of intent from Grangeneuve, which will help us carry out pilot tests. Next will come the creation of a spin-off, certification and expansion into the veterinary and plant health markets.

To conclude, you have been supported by Fri Up for many years. What does this collaboration look like?

Fri Up supports us in structuring the project, seeking funding and preparing applications, as well as connecting us with strategic partners in the innovation ecosystem.