Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, diagnostic testing has been in short supply in the United States and around the world. In order to fill this gap, scientists at USAMRIID have developed a method called BMASS (Biodefense Mass Sequencing and Surveillance). It enables testing of large populations, rapid turnaround, and individual sample results, using three key elements: Massive sample pooling, PCR testing, and a technique called Next generation Sequencing, or NGS.
The power behind the leading-edge science happening at U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases are the minds of our incredible scientists and using that power to inspire others into science is one of our greatest objectives. So, it was no coincidence when Middletown Middle School Science Teacher, and Frederick native, Heather Wilhelm contacted us for assistance.
