# The EdvoReader: Developing a Quantitative PCR and Colorimetry Instrument for Laboratory Skills Training

> **NIH NIH R44** · EDVOTEK, INC. · 2024 · $751,085

## Abstract

Project Summary:
The field of quantitative biology involves using mathematics, statistics, and modeling to analyze the results of
biological experiments. Students at the high school and undergraduate levels can develop these skills through
a comprehensive STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education. These analytical skills are
crucial for success in many careers, including those in science, and for making informed decisions in daily life.
However, despite the importance of this training, and the significant funding provided by the U.S. Department
of Education, biological science teachers often struggle to incorporate quantitative analysis into their curricula.
This is often due to a lack of resources, equipment, expertise, and time. This proposal aims to address these
challenges by creating equipment, experiments, and comprehensive resources that can be used to bring
quantitative analysis into teaching laboratories.
One barrier to incorporating quantitative analysis in teaching laboratories is that the necessary equipment is
designed for research use; it is too expensive, bulky, fragile, and complicated for use in an educational
environment. To address this problem, we will continue to develop the EdvoReader, a simple, integrated device
designed for students to perform inquiry-based quantitative biology experiments in the lab. In Phase I, we
developed a thermal cycler with a precision optical detection system that is capable of both colorimetry and
real-time PCR analysis. In Phase II, we will refine the EdvoReader’s optical system and focus on the
development of a touch screen interface that creates a faster and easier workflow and directs users through
setup, operation, and data analysis. By building this instrument from the ground up, the EdvoReader can
incorporate the features most important to educators while minimizing costs.
To complement the EdvoReader, we will develop a series of inquiry-based experiments for the educational
laboratory. One set of experiments focuses on the basics of environmental monitoring, focusing on water
quality testing. A second set of experiments integrates quantitative biology into experiments commonly
performed in biology, biochemistry, environmental science, and biotechnology classes. To complement the
hands-on experiments, we will create an extensive training library, including how-to videos, interactive
simulations, and materials for STEM career exploration. An assessment team has been recruited to evaluate
the EdvoReader and associated experiments for its effects on STEM identity and for the development of
quantitative skills in high school students. By combining a low cost, user-friendly instrument with dedicated
experiments, the EdvoReader platform will provide educators with an inexpensive and accessible pathway to
teach quantitative biotechnology. In turn, students will gain valuable hands-on training and an understanding of
STEM analysis that will be critical for career development.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10913572
- **Project number:** 5R44GM143977-03
- **Recipient organization:** EDVOTEK, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** Brian Ell
- **Activity code:** R44 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $751,085
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2022-06-01 → 2026-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10913572

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10913572, The EdvoReader: Developing a Quantitative PCR and Colorimetry Instrument for Laboratory Skills Training (5R44GM143977-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10913572. Licensed CC0.

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