A company which has developed a thermography scanner to assess for diabetic foot ulcer risk has been shortlisted in two categories in the 2024 Wales STEM Awards.
Thermetrix, based in Abercynon in south Wales, has developed Podium Professional, a foot thermal imaging device which provides a high-resolution temperature map of patients’ feet.
Its thermal scan reports act as additional evidence to support diagnoses and referrals. They can be used for the detection of inflammation that precedes diabetic foot ulcer development, as well as musculoskeletal trauma (MSK), vascular deficiencies, neuropathy, and acute Charcot foot.
Now the team behind the pioneering device has been recognised in this year’s highly anticipated awards thanks to its commitment to making a difference to the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) agenda in Wales.
Following the success of last year’s awards, the Wales STEM Awards 2024, which is sponsored by Cardiff Metropolitan University, will shine a spotlight on those leading the sector in Wales. This includes those creating an impact on the Welsh economy, those addressing the STEM diversity gap and skills shortage, and those inspiring and raising aspirations of the next generation.
Thermetrix is shortlisted in the Innovation in STEM Award category and the STEM Research Project of the Year category.
The Innovation in STEM Award will be given to a company that has created and developed innovative STEM products and processes that have improved the performance of the organisation, with judges looking for a clear commitment to research and development, continued innovation and future growth potential.
The STEM Research Project of the Year award will recognise a cutting-edge STEM research project that tackles real world problems.
All finalists from across the 14 categories will now be considered by an industry-leading panel of judges, with the winners being announced at the awards ceremony on the 17 October at Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel.
Thermetrix CEO Dr Russell Payne said: “We’re delighted to be shortlisted in both these awards, which recognise our commitment to harnessing all that STEM offers to develop a real-world product which has the power the change lives.
“We are now in the final stages of developing our first home-use prototype which we plan to release soon.
“Podium is easy to use – patients can simply scan their feet daily on the device in their home. The scan data is processed and sent to a software application for local visualisation and then on to a cloud-based platform for assessment by clinicians.
“If a scan (or series of scans) is flagged as containing the correct heat signature then the patient and their nominated contact is notified so action can be taken.
“Thermetrix have proven the Podium technology over the last 24 months by selling a professional version of Podium to podiatrists, chiropractors and the NHS. In addition, Podium Professional is endorsed by the Royal Collage of Podiatry.”
Liz Brookes, co-founder of the Wales STEM Awards, said: “We were truly amazed by the level of talent, innovation, and commitment demonstrated by the organisations and individuals who participated in this year’s awards.
“The exceptional quality of the entries clearly reflects the strong progress being made in advancing the STEM agenda across Wales.
“We are excited to celebrate and showcase the remarkable work being accomplished throughout the country at our awards evening in October.”
Matthew Taylor, Director of Innovation from Cardiff Metropolitan University, who are headline sponsors of the awards, highlighted the significance of the Wales STEM Awards in recognising outstanding individuals and achievements within the STEM sector.
He expressed his delight at the increasing number and calibre of applications received each year, saying: “In shortlisting the entries, the judges have encountered truly inspiring people and initiatives that underscore the strength of the STEM community in Wales—something we can all take pride in.
“I eagerly anticipate meeting the shortlisted nominees and learning more about their exceptional work. Congratulations to all those who have made it to the shortlist.”
The Wales STEM Awards are being jointly organised by Grapevine Event Management and communications agency jamjar. Sponsors include Cardiff Metropolitan University, XMA Ltd, CSA Catapult and EDX Medical.
The full shortlist can be found at www.stemawards.wales
