Igenomix UK repurpose its laboratory to deliver COVID-19 PCR tests

Located on Surrey Research Park, Igenomix UK, a medical laboratory offering genetic tests for fertility treatment, has diverted its resources to carry out COVID-19 PCR tests for both its private and NHS patients as well as their network of clinicians.

Igenomix UK has a highly trained team of 14 (including laboratory and customer support staff) and an accredited medical diagnostic laboratory and has been extremely agile and resourceful, repurposing its expertise and equipment to fight the COVID-19 pandemic by delivering high quality PCR tests. Reaching out to their established network, Igenomix will provide PCR tests to NHS and private fertility clinics, as well as care home workers and aims to process up to 800 tests per day.

Based in Surrey Research Park, a University of Surrey enterprise, Igenomix has been able to tap into the benefits of our centre of excellence, as the team quickly enabled the expansion and repurposing of the laboratory space in Surrey Technology Centre. The COVID-19 response team at the University of Surrey also helped by sourcing additional equipment, and facilitated an introduction into the COVID-19 volunteer testing network. In addition, Igenomix has applied for the University of Surrey SME grant scheme which was put in place to support Surrey Research Park’s innovation ecosystem in this time of crisis.

Igenomix UK is part of an international laboratory network in 19 different countries which has already developed capabilities to help COVID testing and established agreements with hospitals in Italy and Spain.  The PCR test identifies the presence of the COVID-19 virus, whereas the antibody test indicates if you have already had and recovered from the disease. Igenomix UK is currently providing the PCR test but is working hard towards providing a combination of the tests.