Deployable point-of-use pathogen bioelectric sensor

This one-year project involved consultation with stakeholders and end–users on the potential uses of a prototype hand-held electrochemical-based sensor developed by Better Border Biosecurity (B3) to identify pathogens. Researchers tested the sensor on PSA and Xylella fastidiosa (Xf).

Project Abstract

Identifying the barriers and optimising the uptake of emerging technologies, such as point-of-use sensors, remains a pertinent goal of our research. To address this a series of discussions and a workshop were held to identify the key issues. Through these discussions the following themes were highlighted:

Communication: A requirement for early engagement and opportunity to contribute to the research in an on-going, collaborative manner. Acknowledgement and respect for different knowledge systems.

Training: Provision of appropriate, targeted training with robust, user-friendly protocols. Provision of appropriate funding and resources to ensure correct uptake of the new technologies.

Clarity in the role of the new technology in a biosecurity response: What is the expectation from this new technology? Is the new technology to be integrated in to a surveillance program or used as a screening tool? What is the specificity, sensitivity and reproducibility of the sensor?

Vision Mātauranga: Embrace te ao Māori and commit to developing respectful and lasting relationships. Further discussions using the themes identified will be of value to ensure that fit-for-purpose new technologies are developed and taken up to ensure the future biosecurity of Aotearoa.

For more information and publications on this and other B3 projects, visit Zotero.

The Zotero database is on the B3 homepage under ‘Outputs’.