R&D and testing services
Molecular biology R&D, on demand
Assay design, optimisation and molecular testing, from a single experiment to a full feasibility study.
Need an assay developed, an experiment run, or a protocol optimised without hiring or tying up your own team?
We provide flexible molecular biology R&D and testing services, giving researchers and businesses access to specialist expertise when they need it. From assay design and optimisation to experimental work and validation, we can support a specific project or work alongside your team from development through to delivery.
Assay development ·Molecular testing · Custom R&D · How it works · FAQ
Assay development
Assays that work — with the data to prove it
We design, develop and optimise robust molecular assays across gene expression, genotyping, amplification methods, and pathogen and species detection. From early assay design through to optimisation and validation, we focus on generating reliable performance and the evidence to support it.
Gene expression analysis
RT-qPCR assay design and testing to measure gene expression, with appropriate reference genes, controls and clear analysis.
SNP detection and genotyping
Allele-specific PCR, probe-based qPCR and isothermal assays to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms and genotype samples.
Pharmacogenetics testing (research use)
Development and testing of research-use pharmacogenetic genotyping assays, for example on reference or synthetic DNA. Projects involving human samples are by research collaboration only.
PCR and qPCR
Design, optimisation and validation of end-point PCR and qPCR assays, including multiplex formats, with clear performance data.
Isothermal methods (LAMP, HDA, RPA)
Isothermal DNA/RNA detection assays, including colorimetric and visual read-outs, drawing on our own diagnostics R&D.
Pathogen detection
Molecular detection of bacterial, viral and fungal targets in non-clinical samples, from assay design to routine testing.
Species identification
DNA-based identification of species in food, environmental and animal samples, for authenticity, surveillance or research.
Primer and probe design
In silico design, specificity checking and wet-lab testing of primers and probes for your target organisms or genes.
Nucleic acid extraction and sample preparation
DNA and RNA extraction from non-clinical samples, and optimisation of sample prep, including direct and extraction-free workflows.
Molecular testing services
We offer molecular detection and identification of microorganisms in non-clinical samples.
Surface and hygiene monitoring
Sample typesSurface swabs, sponges
Example useChecking cleaning in production, labs or shared spaces, including food manufacturers and restaurants
TargetsAvailable on request
Water and process monitoring
Sample typesProcess water, rinse water
Example useRoutine checks of non-drinking process water
TargetsAvailable on request
Custom molecular detection
Sample typesClient-defined non-clinical samples
Example useOne-off investigations or new targets
TargetsDesigned and validated to order
Method development
Sample typesAny non-clinical matrix
Example useBuilding and validating a new qPCR or isothermal assay
TargetsAgreed in the proposal
Testing areas
Pathogen detectionMycoplasma testingSurface testing for food manufacturers and restaurantsWater testingAnimal sample testing
PCRqPCRLAMPHDARPAOther isothermal methods
We don’t offer clinical diagnostic services.
Quality
Every method is validated in our lab before we offer it, and every run includes positive and negative controls.
Custom R&D
Custom R&D projects
Have a problem that doesn’t fit a box? We scope bespoke experiments and feasibility studies around your research question, budget and timeline, such as feasibility studies, protocol transfer and optimisation, and proof-of-concept experiments.
Who we work with
Built for research teams of every size
Academic laboratories
Extra bench capacity and assay expertise for grants, theses and collaborative projects.
Biotech and agri-tech companies
Assay development and testing support for R&D and product development.
Food, water, veterinary and environmental
Molecular testing of non-clinical samples, from hygiene and water monitoring to animal samples.
How R&D projects work
Three simple steps
Tell us about your project
Share your research question, sample type and what you need to find out, using the enquiry form or by email. We’ll arrange a short call if useful.
Receive a proposal
We send a study plan with the approach, deliverables, a timeline and a quote. Work starts once you’re happy with it.
Get your results
We run the work, keep you updated, and deliver a clear report with methods, data and interpretation, plus a follow-up call.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What types of sample do you accept?
For routine testing and R&D services, non-clinical samples, such as surface swabs, process water, microbial cultures, plant material, animal samples, environmental and food samples, and synthetic or purified nucleic acids. Research projects that require human sample testing may be possible as a collaboration, subject to agreeing terms. We don’t offer clinical diagnostic services.
Can I use your results for diagnosis or regulatory submissions?
No. We don’t offer clinical diagnostic services, and our results are for research use only.
How do I send samples?
For testing services, we send sampling kits, instructions and labelled request forms, and you send samples by courier, in the packaging provided, to our laboratory. We’ll send delivery details with your sampling kit.
How long does a project take?
For R&D projects it depends on the scope, and we’ll give you a timeline in your proposal. For routine testing, turnaround is agreed in your quote.
Who owns the data and results?
We’re happy to work under a confidentiality agreement, and we agree data and IP ownership with you before any work starts.
Ready to start?
Tell us about your project and we’ll come back to you with a proposal.