Start-up VU-AMS has big plans with clever stress monitoring device

VU-AMS is on a mission to revolutionize how we understand and manage stress-related health issues. Now an official VU spin-off, there are big plans for clinical applications. Founder of VU AMS Martin Gevonden explains: “We offer researchers autonomic biomarkers that are valid, reliable and easy to use, without getting under the skin.”

After thriving in the Demonstrator Lab, spin-off VU-AMS is stepping into the next chapter of its journey as a fully-fledged company. The technology is already used by research teams worldwide to explore stress and emotions in diverse environments. We interviewed founder Martin Gevonden to closer look at their mission, challenges, and plans for the future.

What is VU-AMS, and what’s its mission?

Martin Gevonden: “VU-AMS provides researchers with reliable, user-friendly tools to measure autonomic biomarkers—essential data points for understanding stress and emotions—without invasive procedures. By taking the worry out of data quality, we empower researchers to focus on groundbreaking topics like discovering ways to monitor and prevent stress-related illnesses.”

How does the VU-AMS system work?

Martin: “Our system revolves around the VU-AMS Core, a compact monitor worn on the sternum. Connected to stickers placed on the front and back of the body, it tracks real-time physiological and physical activity data. This information is processed through an iOS app and software package, transforming it into actionable digital biomarkers.”

What makes the technology unique, and what’s next?

Martin: “Our standout feature is the use of impedance cardiography (ICG), which simultaneously measures respiration—both depth and frequency—and heart mechanics, such as blood output. We’re now developing advanced algorithms to detect stress episodes and predict long-term health outcomes, taking our innovation to the next level.”

What are the biggest challenges in going to market?

Martin: “A major hurdle is registering the VU-AMS Core as a medical device. Achieving this would make it more accessible for clinical research and even open doors for use in diagnostics and treatment monitoring. The process is complex and costly due to regulatory requirements, but the potential impact on healthcare makes it a challenge worth tackling.”

What’s start-up life like in the Demonstrator Lab?

Martin: “The Demonstrator Lab has been an invaluable launchpad. Being surrounded by other innovative start-ups is incredibly motivating, and their success stories inspire us to dream bigger. The lab offers fantastic support through tailored training programs and peer group coaching, helping us refine our ideas and take them further.”

Please check out VU-AMS’s website for information about their products:
Home – VU Ambulatory Monitoring Solutions

There’s also a video about the idea behind the revolutionary product, please watch it here: VU-AMS – Demonstrator Lab