Prof David Russell: Selected Publications

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Intelligent Fingerprinting

Our Founder and Chief Scientific Officer, Prof David Russell, has published a number of research papers relating to the detection of drugs and drug metabolites in fingerprint sweat:

About Prof David Russell

Professor David Russell is an Emeritus Professor of Chemistry at the University of East Anglia (UEA) in the UK, renowned for his pioneering work in bioanalytical chemistry and nanotechnology-based diagnostics. His research has significantly advanced non-invasive drug detection methods, particularly through the analysis of fingerprint sweat.

In 2007, Professor Russell founded Intelligent Fingerprinting Ltd., a UEA spin-out company that developed the world’s first portable system for detecting drug use via fingerprint sweat. This innovative technology employs antibody-functionalised nanoparticles to identify drug metabolites in sweat residues, providing results within ten minutes. The method offers a dignified and efficient alternative to traditional drug testing, with applications in law enforcement, workplace safety, and rehabilitation services.

Beyond drug detection, Professor Russell co-founded Iceni Diagnostics Ltd. in 2014, focusing on carbohydrate-nanoparticle technology for diagnosing toxins and viruses. His contributions have been recognized with awards such as the Royal Society of Chemistry’s SAC Silver Medal. Professor Russell’s work exemplifies the translation of academic research into practical solutions with global impact.