The objective of this report is to provide a brief overview of what QRT-PCR is, a brief summary of the studies done in wood durability, and protection and a brief description of the two main options to consider when purchasing a real-time PCR thermocycler: single channel or multi-channel for multiplexing reactions. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) is a PCR method with the built in capability to monitor each cycle of the reaction allowing for simultaneous amplification, detection and quantification of DNA as the reaction is being run. This can significantly reduce research time by eliminating the electrophoresis step for detection. In addition, the technique is also more sensitive, enabling detection of minute amounts of DNA. A few groups involved in durability and protection research have successfully utilized QRT-PCR to measure the extent of decay and to make comparisons between the efficacies of different wood preservation treatments. Some potential uses of the technology at FPInnovations include 1. quantifying fungal colonization in bio-assays designed to assess toxic thresholds for wood preservatives and 2. detection and quantification of pests of Phytosanitary concern in different commodities. The addition of real-time capabilities to FPInnovations would broaden our DNA analysis capabilities and strengthen some of our current testing methods. It is recommended that FPInnovations obtain a single channel thermal cycler and develop the methods to measure and compare fungal colonization and decay for some standard testing.