Our Story
CARIGEN was founded as an innovative response to the Caribbean’s growing need for advanced molecular diagnostic services — combining academic excellence with real-world accessibility.
Operating from the heart of the University of the West Indies, we bring cutting-edge laboratory capabilities directly to the communities we serve.
Block B, Level 4 · Faculty of Medical Sciences · UWI Mona Campus
Who We Are
A Partnership of Molecular Biologists
CARIGEN is a partnership of Molecular Biologists with extensive backgrounds in human DNA identification, plant genetics, and molecular diagnostics. We are an innovative company responding to Caribbean needs with state-of-the-art technology.
Headquartered at the University of the West Indies Mona Campus in Block B, Level 4 of the Faculty of Medical Sciences Teaching and Research Complex, our facility is equipped to handle everything from routine STI panels to complex forensic casework.
Since 2005, we’ve built our reputation by combining academic rigour with deep commitment to client care — delivering every result with accuracy, speed, and discretion.
Leadership
Meet Our Directors
Our leadership team brings decades of specialized experience in molecular biology, forensics, and diagnostics.
WM
Prof. Wayne McLaughlin
Head of the Company · Plant Molecular Biology & Virology
Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at UWI. Professor McLaughlin brings over 25 years of expertise in Plant Molecular Biology and Virology, underpinning CARIGEN’s plant identification and plant virology expertise.
CB
Mr. Compton Beecher
Head of Operations · Forensic Science & DNA Diagnostics
Holds a Masters in Biochemistry with over 20 years of experience in Forensic Science and DNA Diagnostics. Mr. Beecher leads CARIGEN’s forensic and human DNA identification services.
Our Team
The People Behind the Science
A dedicated group of analysts and administrators committed to delivering accurate, timely results.
Areas of Expertise
What We Specialize In
Our team covers a broad spectrum of molecular biology disciplines, giving us the depth to handle diverse testing needs.
Commitment to Quality
CAP and AABB Accredited
On 14 February 2020, CARIGEN became the first and only laboratory in Jamaica to be accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) — the leading accreditation organization for pathology and laboratory medicine. CARIGEN is also accredited by AABB, the only AABB-accredited laboratory in the English-speaking Caribbean. Results from our laboratory are accepted by the medical community across the globe.
All our methods are fully validated as CAP requires, and every analyst takes part in proficiency testing each year through CAP, Quality Control for Molecular Diagnostics (QCMD) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), covering paternity, forensics, STDs and infectious disease testing.
College of American Pathologists
CAP Accredited Laboratory — the only internationally recognized molecular diagnostic laboratory in Jamaica.
AABB Accredited
The only AABB-accredited laboratory in the English-speaking Caribbean.
Innovation & Technology
Best-in-Class Instrumentation
We are a small company with the capability of a much larger laboratory: an innovative laboratory design, a seamless workflow, and instruments chosen to be the best in their class.
- Real-time PCR platformsSeveral real-time PCR platforms, backed by integrated DNA extraction and automated liquid handling.
- Automation at scaleAutomated systems process thousands of samples every month.
- Built-in redundancyMultiple redundant systems keep the laboratory running with virtually no downtime.
- Tracked from start to finishLaboratory information management software follows every sample through the lab, for accuracy and confidentiality.
DNA Sequencing
Our next generation DNA sequencing supports cancer genetics and NIPT testing.
We partner only with best-in-industry suppliers of validated, certified test systems and reagents, and we adopt the newest systems as the technology moves forward.
Find Us
Our Location
Conveniently located at Jamaica’s premier research university, our state-of-the-art laboratory is open to clients across the Caribbean.
Caribbean Genetics Laboratory
Block B, Level 4
Faculty of Medical Sciences Teaching & Research Complex
University of the West Indies
Mona Campus, Kingston, Jamaica