Biological Threats

CBRNE materials (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosives) pose a clear threat to public health and safety, national security and economic and political stability on a global level. The identification and prevention of these threats is of the highest priority.

Biological agents – such as bacteria, viruses and toxins – are significantly cheaper and easier to produce, handle and transport than nuclear or chemical materials. They are difficult to detect and symptoms from exposure may not appear for days, possibly weeks.

NUI Galway researchers are working on countering the threat posed by Biological agents. Our Glycoscience Research Group has expertise in the glycodiagnostics of a range of pathogens with application to the detection and decontamination of bio agents. We also have specific expertise in development of molecular diagnostic tests for detection of pathogenic bacteria, fungi and viruses, early warning detection of known pathogens, and in the area of pandemic preparedness.