Global and individual health care is experiencing disruption through a variety of technologies. Building disruptive technologies is at the core of what we do, and since our inception, the University of Waterloo has also been disrupting the boundaries of health. In 2024, the University opened the doors of the Innovation Arena, a new collaboration space within the Health Sciences Campus in downtown Kitchener, to further streamline commercialization pathways for businesses, fast-track delivery of health technologies and drive Canada's next wave of economic growth.
Explore just some of the health-tech innovations springing up from the University's ecosystem that we will be keeping an eye on this year.
Contact lens gel for medication delivery
Dr. Shirley Tang, a professor in chemistry, and post-doctoral researcher Dr. Sayan Ganguly, have developed a 3D-printed silicone-based hydrogel that can deliver drugs through contact lenses. This innovative material continuously releases medication like antibiotics over time, offering a more efficient alternative to eye drops. The hydrogel is durable, flexible and stable, retaining drug efficacy even after a month of storage. The invention holds promise for revolutionizing ocular drug delivery and has the potential for broader biomedical applications.
FluidAI - Postoperative monitoring platform
FluidAI, co-founded by Waterloo Engineering alumni Youssef Helwa (MASc '17) and Amr Abdelgawad (BEng '16, MBET '17), is transforming postoperative care with a smart monitoring system that detects leaks, bleeds and infections early, improving outcomes for abdominal surgery patients. The system uses nanotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI),to identify complications before symptoms appear - reducing mortality and recovery time. Helwa, whose mother is a surgeon, and Abdelgawad, from a family of physicians, have leveraged their backgrounds to build FluidAI into a leading health-tech startup. The company has secured more than $20 million in funding, completed clinical trials across North America and gained Health Canada approval.
Foqus - Quantum medical imaging
Founded by Dr. Sadegh Raeisi (PhD '14), Foqus Technologies is advancing medical imaging with groundbreaking solutions powered by quantum technologies and artificial intelligence. Their proprietary quantum information algorithms enhance the sensitivity and resolution of magnetic resonance technology, enabling faster, higher-resolution and more cost-effective imaging. By integrating machine learning with quantum algorithms, Foqus delivers tenfold faster scan times and early disease detection capabilities.
HeadFirst - Saliva test for concussion
HeadFirst is a startup supported by Velocity, Waterloo's flagship incubator, that has developed a saliva-based test to detect concussions quickly and accurately. Co-founded by Andrew Cordssen-David (MBET '23, BSc '22), a former competitive hockey player, and Dr. Shazia Tanvir, a University scientist, the test targets biomarkers released into saliva after a brain injury. Inspired by the limitations of subjective concussion tests, the team designed a non-invasive, cost-effective solution for use on sports sidelines. Backed by biomarker research from Dr. Marc Aucoin, a professor in chemical engineering, HeadFirst's technology promises to protect athletes from long-term neurological damage and is undergoing pilot studies and regulatory approval.
MedInclude - AI platform for inclusive communication
MedInclude, a Velocity startup founded by Waterloo alum Seun Adetunji (MBET '24), has developed a platform that simplifies complex medical language, translates materials into multiple languages and includes voice-to-text features to assist patients with limited English proficiency. By improving accessibility and understanding, MedInclude aims to create more inclusive care. After successful pilots, the startup is expanding its reach to other health organizations, seeking to make its technology a standard tool for patient-centered care across Canada.
MyPharmacist - AI platform for pharmacists
MyPharmacist, co-founded by Waterloo Pharmacy students Brian Hui, Musab Iqbal and Aram Mohammadi, is a startup addressing inefficiencies in the Ontario MedsCheck reviews - consultations where pharmacists review patient medications. Leveraging AI, MyPharmacist streamlines these reviews by transcribing data and generating tailored discussion points, saving time and enhancing care for complex cases. The team secured a $5,000 grant at the 2024 Velocity Pitch Competition and won the Pharmasave Business Competition. They've showcased their innovation at high-profile events, gaining recognition and momentum for further development and scaling.
3D printed bones
Researchers in the Faculty of Engineering have developed a 3D-printable biopolymer nanocomposite material that mimics bone tissue, offering a groundbreaking solution for skeletal repair and reconstructive surgery. Led by Dr. Thomas Willett, the material can be customized to match patients' anatomy, reducing reliance on metal implants or donated bone and improving graft acceptance. It combines nanoparticles to strengthen the material and promotes new bone growth, aiming to eliminate repeated surgeries.
As we track the progress of these novel health-tech innovations, it's clear the University continues to push boundaries in health care. THE Digital Health 2025, hosted in partnership with Waterloo, will bring global leaders together this spring to drive collaboration and shape the future of health care through innovation, entrepreneurship and strategic partnerships.
