TechTalk: How to choose the right membrane for lateral flow tests, from supply to performance

Friday, February 20 at 16:00 GMT | 17:00 CET | 11:00 EST | 08:00 PST

The backbone of effective lateral flow tests (LFTs) lies in the selection of critical raw materials, particularly the membrane.

This 20-minute SelectScience® TechTalk will highlight the intricate connections between raw material choices and test performance, reliability, and accuracy. We will explore how the right membrane influences sensitivity and specificity, ultimately determining the efficacy of diagnostic tools.

Attendees will gain insights into the challenges of sourcing quality materials, the complexities of membrane switching, and the importance of validating secondary sources. We’ll also discuss strategies for optimizing raw material selection to bolster test performance while ensuring cost-effectiveness and a resilient supply chain.

Join us to discover how thoughtful material choices can drive innovation in various applications, from infectious disease detection to environmental monitoring.

This TechTalk is part three of a five-part expert-led TechTalk series on essential topics in LFA development. Register to watch live or on-demand and receive exclusive invitations to upcoming sessions.

Would you like to request a free lateral flow membrane sample? Choose between the 2 mil or 4 mil backing options and discover how Merck membranes can elevate your lateral flow test development!

Key learning objectives:

  • Learn about the critical role of membrane choice in the performance of lateral flow tests and its impact on sensitivity and specificity.
  • Identify common challenges faced when switching membranes and strategies to mitigate risks associated with sourcing and quality control.
  • Gain knowledge on validating secondary sources of membranes and the importance of side-by-side comparisons to ensure consistent test outcomes.
  • Discover best practices for securing your supply chain and optimizing raw material selection to maintain cost-effectiveness without compromising test performance.

Who should attend?

This Tech Talk is designed for professionals involved in the development and manufacturing of diagnostics, including researchers, assay developers, and quality control specialists. It is particularly beneficial for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Lateral Flow Assays and improve their assay development processes.

Certificate of attendance
If you attend the live TechTalk, you will automatically receive a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.

If you view the on-demand TechTalk, you can request a certificate of attendance by emailing editor@selectscience.net.

TechTalk details

  • Cost: Free to attend
  • Location: Online
  • Duration: 20 minutes

Registration is required to secure your place. If you register but can’t attend live, you will receive a link to the on‑demand recording once it becomes available.

Speakers

Eileen Hannigan, Ph.D
Eileen Hannigan, Ph.D
Scientific Director, Assay Development Services, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Eileen Hannigan is the Scientific Associate Director for the Assay Development Services Group at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany with the Life Science division. In this role, she coordinates and leads the groups technical collaborations. Eileen has worked at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany for 25 years, initially providing product and application support for the critical raw materials in the Diagnostic Business portfolio before moving into Research and Development. Her background is in Industrial Biochemistry and she holds a Ph.D. in Immunology.

Kelly Phela
Kelly Phela
Scientist, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Kelly Phelan is a Scientist at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany with over 10 years of experience working in the lateral flow diagnostics field. She holds a BSc in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology from Munster Technological University. Her work has focused on applications testing, troubleshooting, and customer complaint investigation, supporting the evaluation and selection of critical raw materials for lateral flow tests.

Register for free