A reliable and trusted service from one of the UK’s largest forensic DNA companies and Natural England’s sole appointed testing laboratory
Reliable Results
We are delighted to announce that Cellmark again achieved a perfect score in the 2023 FAPAS Great Crested Newt (GCN) eDNA proficiency testing scheme.
Rapid Turnaround
We offer a range of GCN environmental DNA (eDNA) testing services for you - 10 day, 5 day, 2 day turnaround and our fastest Next Day express service.
Competitive Pricing
We've held last year's prices for the 2023 season! Buy a testing kit online today or call us to find out about our special deals for larger testing volumes and mixed turnaround time orders.
*For orders of 20 kits or more. Regular prices per kit - 10 day £165, 5 day £235 and 2 day £290 +VAT
Visit our shop and buy your kits online or call our friendly customer services team (for free) to discuss your testing requirements, get a quote or place an order. You can also email us at edna@cellmark.co.uk with any enquiries. Our team are available from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm every weekday (and until 7.00pm every Monday).
All our prices include the following as standard:
GCN eDNA Sampling Kit
Courier kit delivery
Full analytical report
Kit Ordering and delivery FAQs
Please note, the service turnaround is measured in working days and calculated from the date we receive the sample at our laboratory.
Environmental DNA or eDNA is genetic material given off by an organism into its environment. In the case of great crested newts, the eDNA samples are collected from bodies of water. This DNA can persist for a number of weeks, allowing us to test for its presence in water samples. Most frequently ponds are surveyed during the great crested newt breeding season.
Great crested newts (GCN; Triturus cristatus) are a protected species in the UK. Deliberately capturing, killing, disturbing or injuring great crested newts at any life stage and damaging, destroying or obstructing access to a breeding or resting place, are prohibited by law. eDNA testing is a rapid and effective way to test for the presence or absence of great crested newts.
>35 yrs
Established in 1987 Cellmark pioneered the introduction of forensic DNA analysis and has built an international reputation for forensic excellence.
500+
Our diverse employee population is rich in expertise across a range of scientific disciplines. We aim to attract and retain the top talent in the industry.
1000s
Chosen and contracted by a wide range of customers including the general public, local authorities, 80% of UK police forces plus national and international government agencies.
5m+
Approaching 3 million human DNA samples and over 2.5 million animal samples DNA tested at our laboratories in the UK.
Superior service
The skill of our science is matched by the commitment of our people to deliver a swift, responsive and high quality service for our customers. Our customer service team strive to make doing business with us as easy as possible.
Scientific excellence
Participating in the Natural England proficiency tests our assay is able to detect newt DNA even in the lowest concentrations. Across our range of services we work to exacting quality standards for technical excellence, data security and environmental responsibility.
A wealth of experience
With over 35 years’ experience of providing specialist DNA services we have a history of innovation, scientific development and analytical excellence.