The document is a letter from the Unitech Analytical Services Laboratory in Papua New Guinea responding to inquiries about their soil analysis capabilities. It summarizes that the lab was established in 2007 through a partnership between PNG University of Technology and ACIAR. It performs analysis of soils, plants, waters, and foods using instruments like ICPOES and LECO Truspec CN. The lab supports both academic and private/government projects and analyzes an average of 1000 samples annually. It identifies strengths as equipment and location but notes potential improvements in accommodation, personnel, and accreditation. The letter expresses expectations to establish networks, learn current soil analysis trends, and address challenges in Pacific laboratories through the GLOSOLAN meeting
1. Unitech Analytical Services Laboratory
Department of Agriculture
PNG University of Technology
Papua New Guinea
Tata Telawika
EcoScience Precinct, Brisbane
October 17, 2019
2. Soil analysis in your lab
About UASL
UASL was established in 2007 under a partnership
between the PNG University of Technology and the
Australian Centre for International Agricultural
Research (ACIAR) to develop the capacity to provide
the support facilities for agricultural related research.
What analysis do you perform?
Soils/Plants/Waters/Food
3. How many samples do you analyse each year?
Averaging 1000 samples per year
What instrument/equipment do you use?
ICPOES, LECO Truspec CN, Discrete AQ2
What projects do you support?
Academic Research Projects
Projects from Private and Government Sector
Soil analysis in your lab
4. Are they ‘mobile’ laboratories?
Stationary Lab
Are soil test kits commonly used?
No
Soil analysis in your country
5. What do you think your lab is strong at?
Strengths and Weaknesses
Equipment
Location
Faculty Member Support
6. What do you think it could be improved in your lab?
Strengths and Weaknesses
Accommodation
Personnel
Quality System (Accreditation)
Equipment
7. What are your expectations out of this meeting and
GLOSOLAN?
Expectations
Establish and Strengthen Existing Network
Current Trends in Soil Analyses
Addressing Challenges in the Pacific Laboratories
Address issues with regards outliers in Proficiency
Testing
8. Pictures from your laboratory
• Undergraduate &
Postgraduate
Research
• Training