Jinal Shah

ExGen Dx, trading as Linear Diagnostics Limited, is a Birmingham-based biotechnology company and University of Birmingham spin-out developing innovative molecular diagnostic technologies to improve infectious disease testing. The company focuses on rapid diagnostic solutions, particularly for sexually transmitted infections such as *Chlamydia trachomatis* (chlamydia) and *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* (gonorrhoea). Its technology uses EXPAR (Exponential Amplification Reaction), an isothermal nucleic acid amplification approach designed to detect specific genetic targets without conventional PCR thermal cycling. By combining molecular amplification technology with a disposable cartridge and desktop reader concept, ExGen Dx aims to make testing faster and more practical, with the potential to bring diagnostic testing closer to patients and healthcare professionals. What makes the company distinctive is its focus on translating scientific innovation into accessible diagnostic solutions. Faster testing could help healthcare professionals make timely clinical decisions and support earlier treatment, subject to appropriate clinical validation and implementation. Through research, assay development, and technological innovation, ExGen Dx is working towards a future where infectious disease testing can become more efficient and accessible, helping address important healthcare challenges while advancing the possibilities of rapid molecular diagnostics.

The team at ExGen Dx, trading as Linear Diagnostics Limited, brings together scientific expertise, technical skills, and a shared commitment to advancing rapid molecular diagnostics. As a biotechnology company originating from the University of Birmingham, the team works at the intersection of research, innovation, and real-world healthcare challenges. Our work focuses on developing and optimising diagnostic technologies for infectious diseases, including chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Achieving this requires collaboration across experimental research, assay development, troubleshooting, quality practices, and the refinement of laboratory workflows. Every contribution matters, from investigating experimental results and improving protocols to maintaining accuracy, consistency, and safe laboratory practices. As an R&D Scientist, I am proud to contribute to this collective effort through experimental optimisation, sample processing, and supporting the development of rapid diagnostic approaches using EXPAR technology. Working in a collaborative research environment continually reminds me that meaningful innovation is rarely achieved alone; it depends on shared knowledge, open communication, persistence, and learning from challenges. What makes our team special is our common goal: turning scientific ideas into practical diagnostic solutions that could ultimately benefit patients and healthcare professionals. In a developing biotechnology company, adaptability and teamwork are essen

My journey began in India, and in 2018, I moved to the UK as an international student with a dream of building a future through education and science. Starting over in a new country meant adapting to an unfamiliar education system, finding my confidence, and learning to navigate challenges independently. I knew the journey would not always be easy, but I was determined to keep moving forward. One of the most defining moments came during my final year at Birmingham City University, when my father suffered a brain stroke. Balancing personal challenges with academic pressure was incredibly difficult. However, his words, “Everyone looks up to you—you shouldn’t give up,” gave me the strength to persevere. I graduated with First-Class Honours in Biomedical Sciences, a milestone that represents resilience as much as academic achievement. Alongside my studies, I discovered my passion for leadership and supporting others, becoming Vice-President for Equity & Inclusion and Vice-President for Opportunities & Community, representing more than 24,000 students. My scientific interests led me to research antimicrobial resistance, present my work at conferences, and receive a Policy Poster Award from Applied Microbiology International. Today, I work as an R&D Scientist at ExGen Dx, contributing to the development of rapid molecular diagnostic approaches for infectious diseases. I am also continuing my professional development through cellular pathology studies at Aston University. My journey has taught me that setbacks do not define our future. I want to use what I have learned to advance science, empower women, and help others believe in their own potential.