Lateral flow tests
In partnership with the Scottish Government, all staff and students have access to rapid, twice weekly testing using a lateral flow device, even if they have no symptoms. If you are attending campus, you are encouraged to use this service based at The Pleasance.
TestEd research programme
In addition, the University and the UK Medical Research Council are supporting a research programme called TestEd, which has developed an innovative new approach to Covid-19 testing. TestEd uses PCR-based testing of saliva samples and is currently available at multiple sample collection centres across the University. Over the coming weeks, Covid-19 testing through the TestEd programme will be made available to the University’s entire population of staff and students. Here Professor Linda Bauld, Bruce and John Usher Professor of Public Health in the Usher Institute, explains a bit more about the project.
Campus-based staff and students can book a lateral flow test using a nasal swab at the Pleasance for free, and receive results in around 30 minutes. The TestEd PCR approach is a saliva-based test and returns results the following day. Testing through the TestEd programme does not require booking for a test but requires registration and consent through the TestEd programme.
As a research project, testing within the TestEd programme has not yet been approved by medical regulators.
Staff will receive an email invitation to take part in the project when sample donation becomes available in their area over the coming weeks.
People who have symptoms of Covid-19 or who have been in contact with somebody who has tested positive for the virus should continue to access a free PCR test from the NHS.
You can find out more information on the University testing website and the TestEd website.