About Us
Our History
Aurora Scientific was founded in 1988, by Brian Hepburn, an experienced and well-respected microbiologist, who decided to set up his own company making specialised sampling equipment for the UK water industry. With his specialist knowledge, he knew exactly what was required to fulfil the Drinking Water Inspectorate requirements and meet the necessary EU parameters for analysis. These include sampling for pH value, faecal matter, and metals, for example, and complying with the frequency with which samples have to be taken.
Today
Aurora Scientific provides a professional, efficient, and friendly service. We supply 70% of regional water utility companies, as well as large laboratories, that have to carry out microbiological and chemical analysis for all water types. With over twenty-five years of experience, we also offer a wide range of reliable, high-quality products to the food, environmental, pharmaceutical, and water industries. Our specialist range of bottles is procured, assembled, sterilised, and treated with Sodium Thiosulphate before being distributed nationwide. We provide a turnkey operation for the water industry, with every single bottle being completely traceable with a unique batch and barcode.
Meet the Team
Based in Keynsham, near Bristol in the south west of England, the team at Aurora is made up of 17 members of staff, all of whom play a vital role in the smooth running of the business.
The company today is headed by Tim Down, Chief Scientist and Quality Control; a microbiologist with over 25 years’ experience in the water and manufacturing industries. He is supported by Samantha Hepburn – General Manager and, together with Tim, responsible for Quality Management; Barry Wood – Production Manager; his capable assistant David Hamblin; Sharon Osmond – Production Laboratory Supervisor; Susie Bishop - Sales Office Manager and the rest of the team at Aurora.
Sam Hepburn - General Manager and Quality Control
Sam is another key member of Aurora Scientific’s management team. With Sam’s strong administrative skills, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail, she ensures smooth operational functioning on a day-to-day basis. These duties encompass general financial management, transport utilisation, and the management of customer service and satisfaction. Working closely alongside Susie Bishop in our accounts team, both Susie and Sam provide the main customer focus to our customers and suppliers. In addition, in her capacity as General Manager, Sam develops, implements, and maintains Aurora Scientific’s Quality Management Systems in synergy with the scientific knowledge of Tim to ensure that all work undertaken conforms to ISO9001 and ISO14001 external regulatory and accreditation requirements.
Barry Wood - Production Manager
Barry has been working at Aurora Scientific for over fifteen years and thus provides the company with a wealth of manufacturing production experience. He currently manages and oversees a team of ten production staff, ensuring that all of the production and assembly lines run efficiently and smoothly. At Aurora Scientific, Barry performs an essential link to the management team in setting cost-effective targets whilst delivering all finished products on time and to the highest quality standards.
Vision Statement - What We Do
Tomorrow’s science depends on what we do today. We aim to contribute to a healthier, smarter, and safer world by setting the standard for high-quality sampling solutions that ensure reliability, safety, and compliance for the food, environmental, pharmaceutical, and water industries.
Mission Statement - How We Make a Difference
We are dedicated to enhancing our customers’ operations by delivering unparalleled sampling and analysis solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and reliability. We proudly maintain a UK-based supply chain and manufacturing process to ensure timely delivery and exceptional quality control. Through continuous innovation, bespoke solutions, and a customer-centric approach, we strive to support our clients in achieving excellence in safety and compliance.
Our Company Values - What We Stand For
Quality
We are committed to providing the highest quality products and services that meet and exceed industry standards, ensuring reliability and trust, while operating with integrity, transparency, and accountability in every solution we offer.
Customer-Centric
Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We build lasting relationships through personalised service, understanding their needs, and delivering tailored solutions.
Expertise
With over 30 years of experience, we pride ourselves on our deep industry knowledge and expertise, which we leverage to provide insightful, effective, and bespoke solutions for our clients.
Made in Britain
By maintaining a UK-based supply chain and manufacturing process, we ensure exceptional quality control and timely, reliable deliveries to our customers. Our commitment to supporting industry at home strengthens our sustainability credentials by reducing transportation emissions and minimising our environmental impact. By focusing on local production, we positively contribute to the environment and society through more efficient and eco-friendly practices.