Expertise

Stephen Bustin is a molecular biologist internationally recognised for advancing the development, application, and critical evaluation of PCR-based technologies. His work spans fundamental assay design, novel amplification strategies, and the translation of molecular methods into reliable diagnostics. He also acts as an advisor and expert witness in cases where the accurate use of PCR evidence is critical, including high-profile international trials.

Areas of expertise include:

  • PCR and qPCR assay design, optimisation, and validation across research, clinical, and veterinary settings

  • Molecular diagnostics for human, animal, and microbial disease

  • Standards and reproducibility - lead author of the MIQE guidelines, cited nearly 20,000 times and incorporated into ISO standards

  • Research integrity and methodological transparency, with a focus on reproducibility and trust in data

  • Exposing misuse of PCR in the false MMR–autism claims, helping to safeguard public confidence in vaccination

  • Expert witness testimony, including a New Zealand murder trial where PCR evidence was central

  • Development of novel PCR approaches, including Extreme PCR, FlashPCR, and low-volume assays for resource-limited settings

A-Z quantitative PCR qPCR MIQE