Vertebrate Antibodies Ltd (VAL): Innovative Antibody and Recombinant Solutions
Vertebrate Antibodies Ltd (VAL) was founded by experienced research scientists from the University of Aberdeen. We develop and supply high-quality antibodies, recombinant antigens and specialist research reagents for diagnostics, assay development and life science research.
Our expertise combines antibody development, recombinant protein engineering and computational biology. This allows us to develop reagents for both established targets and technically challenging applications across human, veterinary and aquaculture research.
Technology
VAL works with its parent company, EpitogenX Ltd, to combine recombinant antigen engineering with AI-driven design.
EpitoGen® Scaffold Technology
EpitoGen® presents selected epitopes within engineered recombinant scaffolds, enabling targeted antigen design, multiplexing and improved assay development.
AI and Bioinformatics
EpitogenX uses AI, bioinformatics and protein modelling to identify relevant protein regions and guide antigen design for antibody development and diagnostics.
Scientific Expertise
Our team brings expertise in hybridoma technology, recombinant protein production, antibody engineering, bioinformatics, protein modelling and AI-driven antigen design.
This combination of experimental and computational capabilities enables VAL to develop specialised products and solutions for medical, veterinary, aquaculture and diagnostic research.
If you can’t find the antibody that you need, we can make it for you.
VAL Management
VAL is led by a team of research scientists with complementary expertise across antibody development, recombinant protein technology, bioinformatics, protein modelling and artificial intelligence. The management team includes Ayham Alnabulsi, Beatriz Cash, Steve Bird, Tiehui Wang and Abdo Alnabulsi.
Together, the team brings extensive experience in hybridoma technology, recombinant antigens, antibody engineering and computational approaches for protein and epitope analysis. This combination of experimental and AI-driven expertise supports the development of high-quality research reagents for medical, veterinary and aquaculture applications.
Directors
Dr Tiehui Wang, Director of Biologicals
Dr Tiehui Wang is a leading immunologist with a research focus on regulation of fish immune system, immune stimulation, and novel vaccine development. Dr Wang will be the Director of Biologicals at VAL to establish and oversee the development and production of novel recombinants, including immune regulatory cytokines, antimicrobial peptides, immune stimulants such as flagellins, vaccine candidates, and disease biomarkers. Combining the existing knowledge and innovative antibody approach at VAL with the recombinant technology and the novel biologicals created by Dr Wang will provide solutions and reagents long sought by the aquaculture sector to advance research, assist in the development of novel diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.
Partners & Scientific Advisors
Professor Graeme Murray
Emeritus Professor-Aberdeen University
Graeme Murray is Professor of Pathology and academic clinical speciality lead for Pathology at the University of Aberdeen. Professor Murray is an internationally recognised pathologist with specific interests in gastro-intestinal pathology and cancer biomarker discovery whereby he has identified and validated tumour markers, some of which have completed a phase 1 clinical trial.
Professor Christopher Secombes
Emeritus Professor- Immunology Research-Aberdeen University
Professor Secombes is a leading immunologist specialising in the fish immune system. His research focuses on identifying key molecules of adaptive immunity to define markers of protective responses and support vaccine development. As aquaculture rapidly expands, his work is vital for creating reliable immune markers to monitor infection, assess vaccine performance, and improve overall fish health.
Professor Mirela Delibegovic
Regius Chair of Physiology, Dean for Impact & Engagement- Aberdeen University
Prof. Mirela Delibegovic is an academic and entrepreneurial research leader in biomedical sciences, initiating and developing constructive collaborations leading to successful outcomes, including key publications, significant sustainable funding, and impactful translational discovery research. Experienced line manager, leader and mentor, she pioneers strategic professional development of academic and research staff, and is also elected chair of key University and grant-funding committees.
Dr Robin Brittain-Long
Consultant Physician-NHS & Clinical Lecturer-Aberdeen University
Robin is a specialist in Infectious Diseases, General Medicine, and Acute Medicine, with a strong focus on diagnostics from molecular detection to direct clinical application. His clinical and research expertise spans tick-borne infections, respiratory viruses, tuberculosis (TB), and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM).