Dr Kiran Shrestha is an early career researcher trained in biophysics and bioelectronics, with a focus on developing functional point-of-care (POC) diagnostic devices. He completed his PhD in Biophysics at Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea, where he addressed a major challenge in molecular diagnostics: how to make nucleic acid amplification tests faster, cheaper, and more suitable for use outside specialised laboratories.

During his doctoral study, Kiran developed photothermal PCR platforms designed for rapid and low-cost testing at the point of care. One of the key outcomes of this study was a handheld RT-qPCR device capable of detecting COVID-19 in just 15 minutes. By combining light-based heating with compact electronics, the system achieved fast and reliable thermal cycling while remaining compatible with large-scale manufacturing. His work also produced scalable photothermal PCR chips and multiplexed RT-qPCR devices that rely on efficient light-to-heat conversion rather than complex laboratory infrastructure.

A major aspect of Kiran’s research is his emphasis on affordability without sacrificing performance. Instead of using expensive materials and methods commonly used in plasmonic heating, he introduced carbon black as a low-cost alternative, fabricated through high-throughput roll-to-roll processes. This approach significantly reduced production costs while maintaining rapid temperature cycling. Alongside these advances, he has built strong expertise in flexible biosensors, micro and nanofabrication, and the integration of sensing components with electronic systems. His work has led to multiple high ranked publications and eight patents in printed biosensors and PCR technologies.

Now at The Shiddiky Laboratory at Charles Sturt University, Kiran applies this expertise to develop POC diagnostic devices for biomedical and agricultural applications. The laboratory’s strong focus on remote and rural diagnostics enables direct translation of his technologies into real-world solutions with impact across healthcare and agriculture.