University donates equipment to support testing of Covid-19

The University of Gloucestershire has donated a wide range of specialist lab equipment to help with testing capabilities during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. ​

The equipment, ranging from thermo cyclers, vortexes and freezers, has been donated from research labs from the School of Natural & Social Sciences. 

The equipment collection was coordinated by the Department of Health and Social Care, who have been sourcing high-quality apparatus that will be used to expand testing capabilities for COVID-19. 

The items were collected and will be sent to health facilities in the UK. 

The donation of equipment was led by Daniel Stones, Senior Lecturer in Biosciences at the University of Gloucestershire. 

Daniel said:
“Following a call for specific items of equipment needed to increase COVID-19 testing, colleagues from across the University have been excellent at enabling rapid supply of these vital resources. We are really happy to be able to make this donation of specialist equipment that will support the national effort for increased testing capacity in the fight against COVID-19.” 

The University has donated 3 thermocyclers, vortexes, a -80 °C sample freezer and associated plastic ware for running COVID-19 testing. 

Last week, academics and technical staff at the University united to send thousands of items of protective equipment, normally used in laboratories, to the frontline of the NHS and the local authority. 

Hundreds of boxes of gloves, along with face masks, visors and other personal protective equipment (PPE) have been sent to bolster their vital supplies. 

The first wave of supplies has now been delivered, and will strengthen NHS stock.

Dr Caroline Mills, Head of the School of Natural and Social Sciences at the University of Gloucestershire said:
“We were given an indication of what kit was most urgently needed to support frontline staff and we are pleased and fortunate to be able to play a role in supporting testing capabilities in the effort to deal with the effects of COVID-19.” ​