Arctech Innovation
Our device provides a scalable, non-invasive technology to detect the presence and health of puffins by detecting their odour inside their burrows. It contains trained odour sensor arrays and sophisticated algorithms which recognise when a puffin is present and transmits data to seabird ecologists to monitor population counts and the timing and success of breeding. The device has the potential for detection of avian pests, such as rats, and avian diseases, allowing unprecedented surveillance of vulnerable species.
Arctech Innovation responded to CivTech Challenge 10.3
The Opportunity
The puffin detector is based on a platform technology. For this project it has been designed for stakeholders in environment, conservation and wildlife organisations. However, it has the potential to detect avian diseases, which creates significant commercial opportunities for Arctech Innovation far beyond puffins, for example, in the poultry and agri sector.
Next Steps
Proof of concept is complete. Next we will build on user and field testing with puffins in colonies across Scotland to refine the device and get it market ready. We are also in discussion with relevant agencies in the UK for access to infected birds to train our sensors for disease detection.
The Team
We are a purpose-driven enterprise and a spin-out company from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Our team has expertise in chemical ecology and engineering through to data science, AI, and sensors. As innovators, we have experience in the development and commercialisation of disruptive products.
Nick Staite
CIO
Robert Jones
Director of Grant Development
Freya Spencer
R&D Project Manager
James Logan
CEO and Co-Founder
