Nematode cyst extractor

Soil Essentials is a leading precision-farming SME based in Scotland becoming increasingly engaged in innovative R&D to boost agricultural productivity. A major challenge exists with detection and control of cyst nematodes (CN), which are currently associated with UK economic losses of £38 M pa. With the additional pressure of the foreseeable nematicide ban, the opportunity for new in-field diagnostics for more efficient on-farm decision making is timely. However, successful translation of existing CN assays from lab to field is being hindered by the challenging multi-step sample processing requirements necessary to isolate CN from soil samples prior to analysis. This innovation voucher will give us access to a cutting-edge sample processing technology platform, which has the potential to bridge the gap between lab-based CN diagnostics and in-field commercial requirements. If successful, it will open up possibilities for future UK-based collaborative R&D investment.