Avanc: Harmful Algal Bloom Detection Technology
How our Trainee Consultants from the PhD Accelerator programme applied research skills to real-world challenges
Summary
The trainee consulting team from the second cohort of our PhD Accelerator programme, consisting of Tatenda Mutshiya, Gladys Pangga and Julie Koziy, partnered with Avanc, a company developing innovative technology for the early detection of harmful algal blooms (HAB). These blooms can produce toxins that accumulate in shellfish and give rise to major public health concerns including Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) which affects the nervous system, Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) which causes gastrointestinal illness, and Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP) which can lead to memory loss and other neurological effects. The project focused on understanding where early detection tools could have the greatest environmental and commercial impact.
Objective
To conduct a focused review of best practices in harmful algal bloom monitoring and detection, with particular attention to viability testing and new and emerging technologies that could complement or enhance Avanc’s system. The project also aimed to evaluate existing stakeholder needs, identify current and potential treatments for harmful blooms, assess regional HAB occurrence and bloom recurrence, and determine which algal species present the greatest ecological and economic harm. These insights were used to highlight priority regions and species where Avanc should focus its proof of concept trials and future validation work.
What the team did
The team carried out a global review of recurrent HAB forming species linked to PSP, DSP and ASP, examining their ecological impact, public health relevance and the environmental factors that contribute to bloom formation in different coastal regions. They reviewed monitoring practices, early detection methods, management and treatment options, and the operational and regulatory factors that influence the HAB detection technologies. This was combined with an assessment of stakeholder requirements and market demand to determine where early warning tools would be most feasible and valuable.
Outcome
The project provided Avanc with a clear set of priority regions and species for proof of concept trials, particularly in areas where PSP, DSP and ASP pose persistent management and monitoring challenges. The final recommendations outlined next steps for validation, engagement with potential users and strategic planning for field implementation. Through this collaboration, the team strengthened its ability to translate complex scientific and environmental information into practical strategy and demonstrated the value of collaborative consulting approaches.
