Biolisme > Partner

The University of Southampton is one of the top 10 research universities in the UK, ranked 80th in the world, and has achieved consistently high scores for its teaching and learning activities. It works closely with business and industry, and has a strong enterprise agenda.

The School in Biological Sciences (SBS) hosts the Environmental Healthcare Unit (EHU) which is internationally recognised for the detection, tracking and physiology of biofilms and pathogens in the water and food chains, and in hospitals. The Unit consists of one large Containment Level 3 lab, several Containment Level 2 labs, a CL2 dark room for advanced microscopy studies equipped with live video, computers and image analysis software, and a Containment Level 1 lab equipped with fume hoods. EHU produces and studies monoculture and complex species biofilms on a range of biotic and abiotic surfaces (including stainless steel and plastics found in the food industry). This work is coupled with a patented, advanced light microscopy detection of contaminated surfaces. The Unit also has been investigating survival of L. monocytogenes when adhered to surfaces of interest to the food industry.

EHU coordinated EC-FP5’s CAMPYCHECK project, developing new culture and molecular techniques (FISH, PCR, etc.) to improve detection of fastidious species, and works with several food companies in the UK. EHU participated in FP5 SAFER and CARAFE projects. The Unit receives funding from UK research councils, government departments and industry to develop new methods to detect, track and control pathogens, and has participated in several FP6 projects including development of new methods to detect infectious agents including prions (NeuroPrion) and microbial pathogens in waste waters (HORIZONTAL-HYG).