Science firm takes on more staff

SureScreen Scientifics, the sister company of SureScreen Diagnostics, has added new staff due to an anticipated increase in demand for forensic tests from ecologists working to protect Britain’s most endangered wildlife.

The science firm, based at Morley, has boosted its eDNA testing service with new four lab technicians and one administrator ahead of a seasonal rush from customers looking for evidence of the presence of species including great crested newts, crayfish and smooth newts.

The company uses environmental DNA (known as eDNA) surveys to locate the animals in ponds, lakes and rivers without needing to trap or actually see one.

The technology is so powerful that it can detect the presence of just two newts in a body of water as big as an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

Dr Chris Troth, head of forensic ecology at SureScreen Scientifics, said: “We’re one of the leading laboratories in the country when it comes to offering eDNA tests and so with spring around the corner we are already getting ready for what is traditionally our busy period.

“Because it’s so accurate and kinder to animals, eDNA is a major asset for conservationists. Our country’s wildlife is sadly in a rapid state of decline, so we are expecting to see an increase in demand from ecologists wanting to find out how key species are faring.”