Motivation from practical experience in the hospital
In a second study, Müller showed that the measuring device is also suitable for diagnosing the rare autoimmune disease scleroderma. In affected individuals, the skin on the fingers and face hardens as a result of excessive collagen production – similar to a scar. The progression of this disease is already measured by changes in the skin; “Nimble” can document these more accurately over time.
However, getting the measuring device out of the workshop and into the clinic was definitely one of the greatest challenges. “We always talk about a prototype. But in fact, what you’re dealing with is a device made up of many individual parts,” Müller explains. For example, the software installation in the hospital didn’t work right away. Seemingly mundane things like attaching the measuring head didn’t come as naturally to the medical staff as it did to Müller.
Müller particularly likes working on clinical trials. “Seeing your research being applied in the hospital is incredibly motivating,” she says, adding that input from doctors played a decisive role in developing “Nimble”.
From researcher to entrepreneur
Conduct a market analysis, calculate company costs, write a business plan: recently, Müller’s daily routine has centred around entrepreneurial work rather than research. Although Müller often feels “like a beginner”, the consulting services and the opportunity for exchange with other Pioneer Fellows make her feel up to these new tasks.
“I’m aware that there’s no guarantee the start-up will succeed,” Müller says, “but it’s precisely because the measurements work so well that I’m highly motivated to bring this device to market.” Her friends and family are also very aware of her enthusiasm for her project: “Sometimes I talk about it so much that it’s probably a bit annoying,” she says with a laugh.
Regardless of this, the ETH researcher receives great support from her boyfriend and her family. “They’re really understanding of the fact that I don’t have much time for them right now,” Müller says. She likes to spend her free days outdoors, hiking or cycling. And when she doesn’t manage to get away, she can at least enjoy a splendid view of the mountains from her office desk.
Source: ETH Zurich