Acumen Detection promotes wellbeing on dairy farms

Early detection with Acumen reagents enable dairies to produce better milk while improving animal welfare and business outcomes. Acumen Detection is used by milk laboratories, veterinarians and on-farm by dairy producers who want the best for their herds.

Acumen has its roots in Central New York dairy country. Using technology adapted from American military operations halfway around the world during Operation Desert Storm, the U.S. Army developed portable, early-detection systems that could save the lives of troops under chemical or biological attack. In 2015, Acumen was formed when it became apparent that this breakthrough pathogen-detection technology could revolutionize the way dairy farmers protect the health of their herds.

The Acumen difference

Acumen Detection worked with researchers at Cornell University to develop innovative reagents and incorporate Real-Time PCR for detection that is specific, sensitive and rapid.
  • Acumen Detection Inc. has five patents
  • Our reagents are manufactured in the United States
  • We sell our products to dairy producers, veterinarians, and milk laboratories in the United States, Canada and Panama through a distribution channel that includes Veterinarian’s Outlet, IBA, Diamond City Farm Supply, Leedstone and Dairy Farmers of America
  • Acumen sells reagents and provides training and customer support
Meet the Team
Chief executive officer
Chuck leads Acumen Detection’s team. He consults with dairy owners, veterinary practices and milk laboratories on the uses of PCR technology and reagents for effective managing and business optimization. He is an entrepreneur, having run seven businesses over the course of his career, as well as an engineer with three U.S. Patents to his name. He has invested in more than 60 companies and continues to volunteer his time to mentor technology startups. Chuck earned his Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in engineering from Syracuse University and is the co-author of two books.
Production manager
Brandon was born and raised in Syracuse he brings over a decade of academic research experience to the team. Brandon received degrees while performing organic chemistry research from SUNY Cortland, BS, and Rochester Institute of Technology, MS, prior to pursuing a PhD in chemistry from Syracuse University with an emphasis on medicinal and biochemistry research. He joined Acumen after completing an industry postdoc and is thrilled to join the team. 
Territory manager
Dan is a territory manager / outside sales representative. He began his career at Acumen in 2019 as an inside sales associate and quickly distinguished himself through technical aptitude and as an quintessential customer advocate. Prior to joining Acumen, Dan apprenticed as a butcher in a craft butcher shop in Denver. Now, two years after returning to his hometown of Syracuse, N.Y., he regularly travels across the United States for sales and account management. Dan earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Syracuse University. 
Research scientist
Jacqueline moved to Central New York to finish her education in the environmental science program at Syracuse University, and then decided to stay. She comes to Acumen from a sedimentology laboratory in SU’s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, where she built a career as a lab and field manager. She uses her safety and management skills to help Acumen produce their early pathogen-detection technology, while enjoying the peace of mind that comes from improving herd welfare.
Research and development manager
Jane leads the Research and Development laboratory at Acumen. She has an extensive background in academic research in the areas of microbiology, evolution, and bioinformatics, with a particular emphasis on pathogen detection. She has a passion for the scientific process and is excited about helping support our customers through product development and innovation. Jane earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from SUNY Oswego and her Master of Science degree in Biology from Syracuse University.