Be part of our mission
The Biodetection Technologies Hub brings together expertise from leading universities, government, the wider public sector and industry to develop next-generation technologies for detecting airborne biological particles. Our mission is to push the boundaries of biodetection, protecting people, ecosystems, and the planet from emerging risks.
We actively collaborate with external partners around the world to co-develop innovative solutions, share knowledge, and accelerate the uptake and application of new technologies. Whether you’re a business or government agency looking to develop and test cutting-edge detection systems, a policymaker seeking evidence-based insights, or a research institution keen to join forces, we invite you to work with us. By collaborating, we can tackle complex challenges, integrate the latest advances in sensor innovation, AI, and environmental monitoring, and translate research into deployable solutions.
Let’s shape the future of biodetection together. To get it touch with us, please email connect@biodetectionhub.herts.ac.uk stating your name and a message describing your interests in biodetection and we’ll be in touch shortly.
The Biodetection Technologies Hub is driven by four leading UK universities in the field – University of Hertfordshire, Cranfield University, University of Leeds, and University of Manchester – but we are an open and inclusive network.
We actively seek collaboration with researchers across disciplines, both in the UK and internationally. Our goal is to apply cutting-edge biodetection technologies to diverse fields, including defence, crop protection, healthcare, environmental monitoring and air quality, and atmospheric science. If you’re interested in working with us, we’d love to hear your ideas. Get in touch at connect@biodetectionhub.co.uk. And if you are an early or mid-career researcher looking for your next opportunity, visit our Vacancies page for our current openings.
The Biodetection Technologies Hub collaborates with government departments, agencies, and local authorities to enhance environmental monitoring, protect public health, and strengthen resilience to biological risks
Our work aligns with key policy priorities. From tackling poor air quality to advancing bioaerosol detection for infection control, food security, and climate forecasting, our research delivers insights and technologies that support evidence-based policy and national security. Whether you need research expertise, cutting-edge biodetection tools, or support in shaping future policy, we welcome the opportunity to collaborate. Contact us at connect@biodetectionhub.co.uk to explore how we can work together.
The Biodetection Technologies Hub collaborates with industry to drive innovation, develop cutting-edge sensor technologies, and bring next-generation biodetection solutions to market.
We work with businesses of all sizes – from global leaders in diagnostics and threat detection to specialist sensor manufacturers and biotech firms – to co-develop technologies that address real-world challenges in air quality, food security, environmental monitoring, and healthcare. Our expertise spans bioaerosol detection, gas sensing, air quality monitoring, diagnostics and data analytics, offering businesses access to world-class research, advanced lab facilities, and opportunities to pilot and commercialise new technologies. Contact us at connect@biodetectionhub.co.uk to explore partnership opportunities.
Lead Partners
Collaborators
Dstl
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) brings strategic advantage to UK defence and security through science and technology.
Smiths Detection
A global leader in threat technologies pushing boundaries to deliver innovative solutions for the world's challenges.
Environment Agency
The Environment Agency works to create better places for people and wildlife, and supports sustainable development
Met Office
The Met Office is the United Kingdom's national weather and climate service.
Rothamsted Research
Rothamsted Research is a world-leading, non-profit research centre that focuses on strategic agricultural science to the benefit of farmers and society worldwide.
The Pirbright Institute
A world leading centre of excellence in the research and surveillance of viral diseases of livestock and viruses that spread from animals to humans.
East and North Herts NHS Trust
We run Hertford County Hospital, Lister Hospital, Mount Vernon Cancer Centre and the New QEII Hospital, providing a range of general and specialist health services
Milton Keynes University Hospital
Milton Keynes University Hospital is a district general hospital serving the City of Milton Keynes and the surrounding area of Bucks, Northants, Beds and Oxon.
Luton Council
Luton Borough Council, also known as Luton Council, is the local authority of Luton in the ceremonial county of Bedfordshire.
Optisense Ltd.
OptiSense specialises in developing highly sensitive optical sensing systems alongside precision temperature control arrangements, applying these in the fields of agritech, biotechnology, environmental monitoring and biodefence
Nosmotech Ltd.
At NosmoTech we move technology to products, developing air quality sensors and monitors, and medical diagnostics for low resource countries.
Oxford Nanopore Technologies
Oxford Nanopore Technologies offers a new generation of molecular sensing technology which delivers any-length native DNA and RNA reads.
Hertfordshire Futures
Hertfordshire Futures accelerate employment, enterprise and innovation.
Oxford Cambridge ARC
Working together with business and government to foster research, skills and innovation to support inclusive and resilient growth across the region, and beyond.
Canada Research Chair on Bioaerosols
Caroline Duchaine, Canada Research Chair on bioaerosols is based at Université Laval, located in Québec City, Canada.
DRDC
Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) is Canada's science, technology and innovation leader for defence and security.
UK Health Security Agency
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) prevents, prepares for and responds to infectious diseases, and environmental hazards, to keep all our communities safe.
Alphasense Ltd
At Alphasense, we supply high-quality Oxygen, CO2, toxic and flammable gas sensors to many of the world's leading industrial OEMs.
NSEC
NSEC is a nationwide community of multi-disciplinary academics addressing the UK’s national security and resilience needs.
Great Ormond Street Hospital
Great Ormond Street Hospital is a children's hospital and a part of Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust.
Animal and Plant Health Agency
APHA is an executive agency, sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, the Welsh Government, and The Scottish Government. The influenza and avian virology team at APHA undertake frontline statutory diagnostic testing as well as fundamental and applied research into avian influenza, swine influenza, Newcastle disease virus and endemic avian viral diseases.
FAAM – Airborne Laboratory
FAAM is a world-class research facility dedicated to the advancement of atmospheric science.
HMGCC
HMGCC (His Majesty’s Government Communications Centre), the engineering specialists at the heart of the UK’s national security.
Menapia
At Menapia, we're pioneering the new atmospheric observation systems.
The National Research Council of Canada
The National Research Council of Canada is the Government of Canada’s leading research and development organisation.
The national Physical Laboratory
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is the UK's National Metrology Institute (NMI), developing and maintaining the national primary measurement standards.