About us
We specialise in the delivery of eDNA technologies for nature positive solutions’ in biosecurity and biodiversity.
We work closely with our stakeholders to ensure high quality standards are provided for the application of eDNA technologies. We are committed to delivering research rigour and quality services to our partners and end users through a team of dedicated eDNA specialists and world-class facilities.
Based at the University of Canberra, within the Faculty of Science & Technology we have state-of-the-art DNA facilities with physical separation of pre- and post-PCR that ensures the highest standards required in working with environmental DNA samples. All laboratories are equipped with the latest in qPCR and ddPCR high throughput sequencing technologies.
We have access to specialised animal holding facilities that enable contained sampling and assay development for specific target organisms.
Based at the University of Canberra, within the Faculty of Science & Technology we have state-of-the-art DNA facilities with physical separation of pre- and post-PCR that ensures the highest standards required in working with environmental DNA samples. All laboratories are equipped with the latest in qPCR and ddPCR high throughput sequencing technologies.
We have access to specialised animal holding facilities that enable contained sampling and assay development for specific target organisms.
History
The ecoDNA research team was established in 2013 to undertake the project "New eDNA Surveillance for Multiple High Risk Invasive Aquatic Species" funded by the Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre (now the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions). This project led to the development of eDNA assays for single species detections along with supporting quantitative frameworks to enable estimation of detection probabilities. Since that time, the team have become leaders in eDNA application and research in Australia and the Pacific, publishing numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and partnering with various agencies for improved monitoring and enhanced biosecurity through eDNA tools and applications.
The long-standing collaborations with Federal and State Government agencies has culminated in the establishment of the National eDNA Reference Centre (NRC) which is a collaboration between the ecoDNA team at the University of Canberra and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
The NRC provides support to develop and validate eDNA/RNA-based assays and protocols following international standards, offer proficiency eDNA testing schemes as required, and tests cutting edge technology in order to improve eDNA/RNA assays for the purpose of surveillance and monitoring with particular focus on environment and biosecurity risk management. The NRC provides collaboration opportunities for laboratories throughout Australia and the broader region.
Meet the team
We are a multidisciplinary team providing DNA-based solutions, training and products to support the uptake of eDNA in biosecurity and biodiversity applications.
