Award of Provision of DNA Sequencer

Description

SASA requires a capillary DNA sequencer The DNA sequencer is used by both the DNA fingerprinting and Wildlife Forensic Units. The DNA fingerprinting unit carries out work for the Potato Nuclear Stock Initiation Unit, Potato Quarantine Unit, Variety Testing, Plant Health and Virology and Zoology branches to help fulfil numerous statutory requirements and maintain their reputations for high quality services mostly, but not exclusively, for the seed potato industry. In addition the DNA fingerprinting Unit generates income through testing of potato and sweet potato samples for breeders, growers and the food production industry in the whole of the UK. The sequencer is also used by the Wildlife Forensic Unit in its ongoing support to Police Scotland and other UK police forces for the persecution of wildlife crimes. Both units also pursue research projects to increase the number of crops and animal species we can offer their services for