Developing an easy-to-use device for rapid onsite detection of sewage in water

There is a need for an easy-to-use testing device to detect the presence of human faecal matter rapidly and sensitively in water. Potential applications include identifying misconnections in surface water drainage networks, monitoring bathing waters, and discriminating the impacts of storm overflows/wastewater treatment works versus other pollution sources on the water environment. In a previous proof-of-concept, Newcastle University researchers have detected a genetic marker for human sewage in river water within 3 hours of sampling by completing an onsite, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) with small equipment items in the back of a van. This project will refine and simplify the related procedures with the aim of developing a hand-held and easy-to-use device. This will involve optimization of procedures and reagents and further miniaturization of equipment items that are needed for the sample preparation, PCR reaction, and PCR product detection, using advance methods such as microfluidics and 3D printing. If successful, the project will deliver a substantial advancement of the state-of-the-art in microbial source tracking to protect the freshwater and marine environment.