The way in which the Society processes DNA results is changing.
Previously, Weatherbys Scientific has been the Society’s provider of the entire DNA service, from profile extraction through to sire and dam verification and myostatin testing, followed up with result reporting facilitated through the main Society database.
Over the next few weeks, the process analysis will be split into two parts meaning Weatherbys will continue to extract profiles from the samples you submit to us. Following that, a new piece of software called Helical will analyse the sire and dam verifications and myostatin results. These results will be processed in-house and fed into the main database for reporting to you, the member, meaning reporting will look no different through the medium term.
All members will have a unique account within the Helical system. Initially, this will be view-only. From 2nd April members will be invited to log in to view their account. This view will show records of test requests and the status of testing, including any test results.
Helical is also able to allow multiple users on an account with different levels of access, depending upon which level you grant them. Members are encouraged to amend their account settings if there are any additional users that you would like to add to your account – perhaps a farm administrator or stockperson.
Access levels:
Initial login to Helical is by the email address that you have logged in your ABRI account, and on first login, you will be able to create your own password. Please navigate to https://app.helicalco.com/aberdeen-angus and enter your email address in the box and then follow the link provided in the subsequent email to complete your login.
Further steps will follow view only access and as key stages of the changeover in the office are completed, details will be shared with you.
Included in these changes will be a transition of invoicing platform, which will need to be completed before we can roll out any further facilities in Helical. This change will also mean members will be also able to pay by card or sign up for Direct Debit.
We aim to be at the stage where we can allow members to select animals for DNA profiling in Helical by the summer. It is anticipated that full facilities will be available by autumn 2025.
For any queries, please contact the office.
