Eindhoven University Fund receives legacy of over 5 million euro for research on 'health tech'

Significant

With an endowment of approximately 2.5 million euros (as of 2022), the University Fund Eindhoven (UFe) is relatively small compared to older funds in the Netherlands, such as those in Leiden or Amsterdam. Hence, this donation of over five million euros is particularly noteworthy. Ton Backx, director of the University Fund Eindhoven: "It is a significant amount that enables us to conduct groundbreaking health research over the next several years."  Fred and Thea Philips, with a profound appreciation for science, allocated funds not only to TU/e but also to the University of Leuven and Burgers Zoo in Arnhem. 

"Every euro is equally welcome” 

"It is, of course, remarkable that we are now receiving such a substantial amount, but every euro is equally welcome," says Edith Snelders, team leader of the University Fund Eindhoven. "That’s because this money will be allocated to the financing of research ideas that address significant societal challenges." 

Last year, the UFe established two new funds: the Energy Tech Fund and the Health Tech Fund. The latter fund supports research and projects in the field of health, with technology as the focal point. This requires financing for an extended period. 

Smart Mat for Premature Babies 

The late Thea Philips directed that the funds be allocated to medical research at TU/e.  

The chosen project involves the development of a 'smart mat' in collaboration with Máxima MC in Veldhoven. This mat, when placed under a baby in an incubator, monitors crucial factors like movement, breathing, and potentially, in the future, heart rate without causing discomfort to the infant. 

 Clinical physicist Carola van Pul from Máxima MC explains that for extremely premature babies, weighing as little as 500 grams at 24 weeks, and with underdeveloped organs, close monitoring is crucial. “The advantage of this mat over current monitoring methods is the reduced stress for infants as it eliminates the need for adhesive sensors on their delicate skin.” 

Advanced technology

Van Pul, who is also a professor at TU/e, highlights the potential in monitoring movement. "The sensor mat records decreased movement when a baby is unwell, enabling quick intervention by medical professionals."  

Due to the sensitivity required for such small infants, the mat is equipped with advanced technology. Data gathered by the sensors will contribute to understanding patterns, ultimately developing a model that recognizes and alerts if there are future issues with babies. 

Years of Research  

The mat has undergone testing with at least twenty children thus far, and the collected data will be used to help guide ongoing research.  

However, it may take several more years before the product reaches the market. Nonetheless, thanks to the legacy of Fred and Thea Philips, a PhD student will assist in analyzing the data over the coming years.