About us

We built our consultancy to deliver the monitoring data you need– whether taking on the whole project or supporting you with the molecular analysis

From developing and delivering complete landscape-scale biodiversity monitoring frameworks to training your team to collect eDNA data – we work with you to ensure the data we generate offers the best species evidence your organisation can use.

The eDNA Consultancy team

Laura founded the eDNA Consultancy in February 2024, responding to the need for new molecular technologies for species monitoring and surveillance in conservation. Laura is a UK-based environmental researcher whose previous work focused on the application of environmental DNA (eDNA), with a particular interest in the conservation of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla). She has contributed to advancing molecular techniques for biodiversity monitoring, for the protection of ecologically significant species.

Laura has more than 20 years experience as a molecular biologist and prior to founding the eDNA Consultancy worked for a UK based conservation charity. Here she led the application of new technologies and developed projects that enhanced wildlife monitoring. Her expertise spans genetics, conservation science, and the development of eDNA methods to inform management strategies for aquatic ecosystems.

Laura is the driving force, establishing The eDNA Consultancy’s growth as a commercial business that supports UK and global conservation organisations. She regularly engages in research and outreach activities, inspiring students, citizen scientists and the public about the importance of biodiversity and the role of innovative technologies for organisations restoring biodiversity.

Laura Weldon

Buffy Smith

Buffy co-founded the eDNA consultancy joining in January 2025, bringing expertise in eDNA surveys for terrestrial taxa, particularly from remote and difficult environments. Ten years of experience working in rainforest and savannah environments have led her to specialise in designing remote sampler technologies for eDNA capture. She enjoys thinking creatively to find innovative solutions to problems such as power supply. Buffy’s focus on pushing the boundaries of eDNA data has led her to apply results to occupancy modeling and habitat connectivity frameworks. Recently, this expertise allowed for the successful modeling of D. madagascariensis occupancy using iDNA data and the construction of habitat connectivity models to guide a local reforestation initiative.

Beyond advancing methodologies, Buffy is passionate about knowledge sharing and capacity building. As a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) and with four years of university lecturing experience, Buffy designs and delivers engaging workshops that equip researchers, students, and organisations with the skills needed to work with eDNA.

Do work that works

For the correct eDNA solution we need to understand your aims that way we make sure everything we design delivers your results. We synthesise high quality DNA data, working with our clients to ensure the best application of these results for nature restoration.

We recognise the monitoring challenges you face and can support you by providing enhanced monitoring using molecular data. We work together on every project – letting our expertise meet yours.

Joining the dots

Play as a team

We see ourselves as part of your team… which means listening, collaborating, working to your budgets to deliver your aims, and getting the most out of your data.

We remain research active, so as the field develops we’ll bring you along with us. We’ll always offer you the latest developments in molecular techniques and the best applications for your data.

Keeping current