Trail-blazing technology to test for disease and environmental issues in the field has won the Supreme Award at the 2023 Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards.
2023 Environment Award Supreme Winners DNAiTECH with category sponsors. From left to right: Dr Roger Robson-Williams (Chief Sustainability Officer, Plant & Food Research) Dr Anindita Sen, Tatiana Ceban, Dr Murray Broom, Dr Callum Morris, Gerald Hope (Chief Executive, Marlborough Research Centre).
Blenheim company DNAiTECH has developed DNA sampling and analysis that gives on-the-spot results for a quick response and action, rather than waiting for samples to be sent to a lab for analysis.
The software and equipment is easy to use and has a wide range of applications in testing for harmful pathogens in water, soil, plants, insects and humans. There is also an educational element to the business, which aims to introduce students to applying science to real-life situations.
“We’re overwhelmed with DNAiTech’s win. It’s double gold for Marlborough Research Centre (MRC) as DNAiTECH is part of our Grovetown Park science group. We couldn’t be happier that they won the Marlborough Research Centre & Plant and Food jointly sponsored Supreme Award.
“It’s a perfect result for emerging new TECHNOLOGY that’s conceived and built in Marlborough,” says Gerald Hope, Chief Executive, MRC.
The judges were impressed by the innovation and wide range of environmental applications, the ease of use, and DNAiTECH’s commitment to engaging young people in science.
The Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards are held every two years to showcase businesses and community projects that protect and enhance the environment. Public field days will be held with all winners to share their knowledge and experience.
MRC has supported the Awards since their inception as joint supreme sponsor. The awards are also supported by the Marlborough District Council, Cawthron Institute, Department of Conservation and local sponsors.
The Supreme winner was selected from the seven category winners announced at the Awards Event. DNAiTech also won the Business Innovation Award.
CMEA Supreme Award Winner contact details:
DNAiTECH Murray Broom, 021 429 962
Explore more about DNAiTECH in previous posts:
New diagnostic tool in the making to save NZ’s beehives from fatal disease