A real-time RT-PCR method was developed to detect the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in the absence of virus isolates. The method was based on the genetic similarity between 2019-nCoV and SARS-CoV, and used synthetic nucleic acid technology. The workflow was validated using clinical samples and confirmed to reliably detect 2019-nCoV and distinguish it from SARS-CoV. The study highlights the importance of coordination between academic and public laboratories in developing diagnostic tools during public health emergencies. The method was tested on 297 clinical samples and showed no false positives. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of real-time RT-PCR in detecting 2019-nCoV and the potential for rapid response through collaboration in research networks. The study also emphasizes the value of sharing genomic data and the role of infrastructure projects like the European Virus Archive in providing control materials. The method was optimized for use in public health laboratories and is recommended for routine screening followed by confirmatory testing. The study underscores the importance of technical qualification and external validation in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic tests. The results show that the method is sensitive and specific, with detection limits of around 3.6-5.2 copies per reaction. The study also highlights the potential for detecting other bat-associated SARS-related coronaviruses, suggesting broad applicability. The method was developed in collaboration with multiple institutions and is available for use in public health settings. The study demonstrates the importance of international collaboration in responding to emerging infectious diseases.A real-time RT-PCR method was developed to detect the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in the absence of virus isolates. The method was based on the genetic similarity between 2019-nCoV and SARS-CoV, and used synthetic nucleic acid technology. The workflow was validated using clinical samples and confirmed to reliably detect 2019-nCoV and distinguish it from SARS-CoV. The study highlights the importance of coordination between academic and public laboratories in developing diagnostic tools during public health emergencies. The method was tested on 297 clinical samples and showed no false positives. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of real-time RT-PCR in detecting 2019-nCoV and the potential for rapid response through collaboration in research networks. The study also emphasizes the value of sharing genomic data and the role of infrastructure projects like the European Virus Archive in providing control materials. The method was optimized for use in public health laboratories and is recommended for routine screening followed by confirmatory testing. The study underscores the importance of technical qualification and external validation in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic tests. The results show that the method is sensitive and specific, with detection limits of around 3.6-5.2 copies per reaction. The study also highlights the potential for detecting other bat-associated SARS-related coronaviruses, suggesting broad applicability. The method was developed in collaboration with multiple institutions and is available for use in public health settings. The study demonstrates the importance of international collaboration in responding to emerging infectious diseases.