Tulane University has received a $1 million gift from Elana Amsterdam and her husband, Rob Katz, to significantly expand its molecular pathology lab to increase COVID-19 testing capacity within the region.

The funding will enable Tulane University School of Medicine to purchase new equipment and hire additional full-time staff to ramp up capacity to process up to 1,000 COVID-19 tests per day at its downtown lab. Medical school researchers are also working on highly sensitive next-generation tests that use CRISPR genetic editing technology to screen samples; the lab will be equipped to incorporate those tests as they are developed and approved for clinical use.

Amsterdam is a New York Times bestselling author and founder of Elana’s Pantry, and Katz is the chief executive officer of Vail Resorts.

“We know that widespread testing is critical in stopping the spread of COVID-19. With support from Elana and Rob, we will substantially increase our ability to test individuals in the community who are symptomatic, those who have been exposed to the illness as well as vulnerable populations who are most at risk,” said Tulane University President Michael Fitts. 

“Rob and I feel very fortunate to be able to provide support to the amazing team at the Tulane School of Medicine and the work they are undertaking to improve and broaden COVID-19 testing. We cannot recall another moment during our lives that has caused so much disruption — to our work, our health and our communities. Making testing widely available is critical to address the challenges we all face,” said Amsterdam.