
Genomics Core Facilities in Ethiopia
Engineering Excellence & Technical Support
Genomics Core Facilities solutions for Research & Discovery (R&D). High-standard technical execution following OEM protocols and local regulatory frameworks.
Advanced Sequencing Capabilities
Equipped with state-of-the-art next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, our facilities provide high-throughput, accurate genomic data generation for diverse research applications, from whole-genome sequencing to targeted panels. This enables groundbreaking discoveries in areas like disease susceptibility, pathogen identification, and agricultural breeding.
Comprehensive Bioinformatics Support
Beyond sequencing, our core facilities offer robust bioinformatics services, including data processing, alignment, variant calling, and functional annotation. Expert bioinformaticians work collaboratively with researchers to interpret complex genomic datasets, facilitating the translation of raw data into actionable insights and scientific publications.
Capacity Building and Training Hub
We are committed to fostering genomic expertise in Ethiopia through hands-on training workshops and collaborative research projects. Our facilities serve as a vital hub for training the next generation of Ethiopian scientists, empowering them with the skills and knowledge to conduct cutting-edge genomic research and drive innovation in public health, agriculture, and biodiversity.
What Is Genomics Core Facilities In Ethiopia?
Genomics Core Facilities in Ethiopia refer to centralized, shared laboratory service centers that provide access to advanced genomics technologies, instrumentation, and expert personnel. These facilities are designed to support research, clinical diagnostics, and public health initiatives by offering a comprehensive suite of services related to DNA and RNA analysis. The establishment and operation of such facilities are crucial for advancing biological sciences, improving healthcare outcomes, and fostering innovation within the Ethiopian scientific landscape. They consolidate resources, reduce redundant infrastructure costs for individual research groups, and ensure the availability of high-quality, standardized genomic services. The services typically involve sample processing, library preparation, high-throughput sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis, enabling researchers and clinicians to investigate genetic variations, gene expression patterns, and pathogen genomics at unprecedented scales.
| Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities? | Typical Use Cases | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Research Institutions: Universities and research centers investigating fundamental biological processes, disease mechanisms, and biodiversity. | Biomedical Researchers: Studying genetic basis of diseases, identifying biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, developing targeted therapies, and conducting pharmacogenomics studies. | Clinical Diagnostic Laboratories: Supporting genetic testing for inherited disorders, cancer diagnostics (e.g., somatic mutation profiling), and infectious disease identification. | Public Health Agencies: Monitoring infectious disease outbreaks (e.g., pathogen genomics for tracking transmission and evolution), investigating zoonotic diseases, and conducting population health studies. | Agricultural and Livestock Sectors: Enhancing crop breeding, improving livestock productivity, and studying disease resistance in agricultural species. | Environmental Scientists: Investigating microbial communities (metagenomics), monitoring biodiversity, and studying ecological interactions. | Government and Policy Makers: Informing public health strategies, genetic resource management, and biosafety regulations. | |
| Disease Association Studies: Identifying genetic variants associated with common and rare diseases (GWAS, exome sequencing). | Cancer Genomics: Profiling somatic mutations in tumors for personalized treatment, identifying driver mutations, and tracking clonal evolution. | Infectious Disease Surveillance: Rapid identification and characterization of pathogens, outbreak investigation (e.g., tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants), and antimicrobial resistance monitoring. | Transcriptomics for Gene Expression Analysis: Understanding cellular responses to stimuli, identifying differentially expressed genes, and discovering novel transcripts. | Metagenomics: Characterizing complex microbial communities in various environments (gut microbiome, soil, water). | Population Genomics: Studying genetic diversity, evolutionary history, and migration patterns within populations. | Agrigenomics: Identifying genes for desirable traits in crops and livestock, facilitating marker-assisted selection and genome editing applications. | Epigenomics: Investigating DNA methylation patterns and chromatin modifications to understand gene regulation. |
Key components of Genomics Core Facilities in Ethiopia:
- Sample Preparation and Processing: Services include DNA/RNA extraction, quality control (e.g., Qubit, Bioanalyzer), and normalization from various biological matrices (blood, tissue, saliva, environmental samples).
- Library Preparation: Expertise in preparing diverse genomic libraries for various sequencing platforms, including whole-genome sequencing (WGS), whole-exome sequencing (WES), targeted sequencing, RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), ChIP-sequencing (ChIP-Seq), and metagenomics.
- High-Throughput Sequencing: Access to and operation of cutting-edge sequencing technologies such as Illumina NovaSeq, MiSeq, or similar platforms, as well as potentially Oxford Nanopore or PacBio for long-read sequencing.
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis: Provision of computational resources, software pipelines, and expert bioinformaticians for data processing, alignment, variant calling, gene expression analysis, pathway analysis, and population genetics studies.
- Quality Assurance and Control: Implementation of stringent QC protocols at every stage of the workflow to ensure data integrity and reliability.
- Training and Consultation: Offering training workshops, technical support, and collaborative consultation for researchers on experimental design, protocol optimization, and data interpretation.
Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities In Ethiopia?
Genomics core facilities in Ethiopia are essential for advancing research, diagnostics, and biotechnological applications. These facilities provide access to sophisticated equipment, specialized expertise, and standardized protocols that are often beyond the scope of individual research labs or small institutions. Their establishment and utilization are critical for building robust scientific infrastructure and fostering innovation within the country.
| Customer Type | Relevant Departments/Institutions | Key Genomics Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Academia | University Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, Public Health, Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine Departments; Research Institutes | Basic research in genetics and genomics, disease mechanism studies, crop and livestock improvement, evolutionary studies, training of future scientists. |
| Agriculture | National Agricultural Research Institutes (e.g., Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research - EIAR) | Marker-assisted selection for crop and livestock breeding, pest and disease resistance studies, genetic diversity analysis, development of climate-resilient varieties. |
| Healthcare & Public Health | Hospitals (university teaching hospitals and regional ones), Public Health Institutes (e.g., Ethiopian Public Health Institute - EPHI), Disease Control Centers, Forensic Science Laboratories | Diagnostic genomics (infectious diseases, inherited disorders, cancer), pathogen surveillance and genomics, pharmacogenomics, genetic screening, forensic DNA analysis, outbreak investigation. |
| Government Agencies | Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ethiopian Food and Drug Administration (EFDA) | Policy development based on genetic insights, food safety and traceability, monitoring zoonotic diseases, environmental impact assessment, biosecurity. |
| Industry (Emerging) | Biotechnology startups, Pharmaceutical companies, Agribusiness firms | Development of novel diagnostics and therapeutics, agricultural product innovation, quality control, personalized medicine initiatives. |
| Conservation & Environment | Environmental research centers, Wildlife conservation organizations | Biodiversity assessment, population genetics for conservation, environmental monitoring using environmental DNA (eDNA). |
Target Customers and Departments for Genomics Core Facilities in Ethiopia
- Researchers in public and private universities
- Scientists at national agricultural research institutes
- Healthcare professionals and clinical researchers
- Government agencies involved in public health and food security
- Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies (emerging sector)
- Environmental research organizations
- Veterinary researchers and institutions
Genomics Core Facilities Process In Ethiopia
Genomics core facilities in Ethiopia, though a developing area, are increasingly vital for advancing biological research, diagnostics, and agricultural development. The workflow for accessing these services generally follows a structured process designed to ensure efficient and accurate project execution, from initial inquiry to the final delivery of results.
| Stage | Key Activities | Involved Parties |
|---|---|---|
| Inquiry & Consultation | Expressing interest, discussing project needs, understanding capabilities | Researcher, Core Facility Staff |
| Project Planning | Defining objectives, designing experiments, selecting methods, cost estimation, proposal writing | Researcher, Core Facility Staff (Bioinformaticians, Technicians) |
| Sample Submission & QC | Sample collection, preparation, submission, quality assessment (quantification, purity, integrity) | Researcher, Core Facility Staff |
| Library Preparation | DNA/RNA fragmentation, adapter ligation, library amplification | Core Facility Staff |
| Sequencing | Loading libraries, running sequencing instruments | Core Facility Staff |
| Data Generation & Initial Processing | Raw data output (FASTQ), quality assessment of reads, filtering | Core Facility Staff, Automated Systems |
| Bioinformatics Analysis | Alignment, variant calling, gene expression quantification, functional annotation | Core Facility Bioinformaticians, Computational Resources |
| Data Interpretation & Reporting | Analyzing results, generating reports, visualizations, explaining findings | Core Facility Bioinformaticians, Researcher |
| Data Archiving | Storing raw and processed data for future access | Core Facility Staff |
Genomics Core Facilities Process in Ethiopia: Workflow from Inquiry to Execution
- Initial Inquiry & Consultation: Researchers or clinicians interested in genomics services typically initiate contact with the core facility through email, phone, or a designated online portal. This initial phase involves understanding the researcher's project goals, the type of genomic analysis required (e.g., sequencing, genotyping, gene expression analysis), and the sample types available.
- Project Planning & Proposal Development: Based on the initial inquiry, the core facility staff (often including bioinformaticians and lab technicians) will work with the researcher to refine the project scope. This may involve designing experiments, selecting appropriate genomic technologies, estimating costs, and developing a detailed project proposal. This proposal outlines the objectives, methodology, timeline, and expected deliverables.
- Sample Submission & Quality Control: Once the proposal is approved and funding is secured, the researcher is provided with guidelines for sample collection, preparation, and submission. Strict quality control measures are implemented upon sample receipt to ensure their suitability for downstream genomic analysis. This might include DNA/RNA quantification, purity assessment, and integrity checks.
- Library Preparation: The prepared samples undergo library preparation, a crucial step where DNA or RNA is fragmented and adapted with sequencing adapters. The specific library preparation protocol depends on the type of sequencing technology and the experimental design.
- Sequencing: The prepared libraries are then loaded onto high-throughput sequencing platforms. The choice of sequencing platform (e.g., Illumina, Nanopore) depends on factors like throughput, read length, cost, and the specific research question.
- Data Generation & Initial Processing: The sequencing instruments generate raw data in the form of FASTQ files. This raw data undergoes initial quality checks and processing, including base calling and quality score assessment, to identify and potentially filter out low-quality reads.
- Bioinformatics Analysis: This is a critical stage where raw sequencing data is transformed into biologically meaningful information. It involves a series of computational steps, including read alignment to a reference genome, variant calling, gene expression quantification, and functional annotation. The complexity of this analysis depends heavily on the project's objectives.
- Data Interpretation & Reporting: The results of the bioinformatics analysis are then interpreted in the context of the original research question. The core facility typically provides a comprehensive report that includes raw data files, processed data, analytical results, visualizations (e.g., graphs, charts), and a detailed interpretation of the findings. This report is shared with the researcher for further scientific investigation.
- Data Archiving & Future Use: Upon project completion, data is often archived by the core facility for a specified period, allowing for future reference or re-analysis. Researchers may also be provided with secure access to their data for long-term storage and publication.
Genomics Core Facilities Cost In Ethiopia
Genomics core facilities in Ethiopia are a burgeoning area, offering essential services for research, diagnostics, and biotechnological advancements. The cost of these services is influenced by a variety of factors, making it challenging to provide a single, fixed price. However, understanding these pricing factors and the typical ranges in the local currency (Ethiopian Birr - ETB) is crucial for researchers and institutions planning their budgets.
Key Pricing Factors for Genomics Core Facilities in Ethiopia:
- Type of Service: The complexity and nature of the genomic service directly impact the cost. Basic DNA extraction is less expensive than advanced sequencing or complex bioinformatics analysis.
- Technology Used: Different sequencing platforms (e.g., Illumina, PacBio) and other molecular biology technologies (e.g., qPCR, ddPCR) have varying capital and running costs, which are passed on to the user.
- Sample Volume/Throughput: Bulk discounts are often available for large numbers of samples, reducing the per-sample cost. Conversely, processing a single, specialized sample might incur a higher per-unit price.
- Reagent and Consumable Costs: The cost of high-quality reagents, enzymes, kits, and consumables is a significant component of the overall price. These are often imported, subject to currency fluctuations and import duties.
- Labor and Expertise: The cost of skilled personnel, including molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and technicians, is factored into the pricing. Specialized expertise commands higher rates.
- Equipment Maintenance and Depreciation: Core facilities incur costs for maintaining sophisticated equipment, software licenses, and the depreciation of capital investments.
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis: Complex data analysis, interpretation, and reporting require specialized software and skilled bioinformaticians, adding to the overall cost.
- Facility Overhead: General operational costs, such as electricity, lab space, administrative support, and quality control measures, contribute to the pricing.
- Service Provider Type: Pricing can vary between academic/research institution-based core facilities (often subsidized for internal users) and private commercial labs (which typically have higher profit margins).
- Project Scope and Customization: Highly customized projects or services that fall outside standard protocols may incur additional charges.
Typical Price Ranges (Estimates in Ethiopian Birr - ETB):
It's important to note that these are estimates and actual prices can vary significantly. Core facilities often provide custom quotes based on specific project needs. The ETB has experienced volatility, which can affect imported reagent costs and thus service pricing.
- DNA/RNA Extraction: Basic extraction can range from 200 ETB to 1,000 ETB per sample, depending on the tissue type and the kit used.
- PCR/qPCR: Standard PCR can range from 150 ETB to 600 ETB per reaction, while qPCR, depending on the number of targets and plate size, might be 500 ETB to 2,500 ETB per sample.
- Sanger Sequencing: For a single gene or amplicon, prices can range from 800 ETB to 2,500 ETB per sample (including basic purification and analysis).
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) - Library Preparation: This is highly variable. For a standard amplicon library, it might start around 1,500 ETB to 5,000 ETB per sample. Whole-genome or exome library prep can be significantly higher, 5,000 ETB to 15,000+ ETB per sample, depending on the technology and complexity.
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) - Sequencing Run: This is largely dependent on the sequencing depth and platform. Costs can range from 5,000 ETB to 20,000+ ETB per sample for basic whole-genome or exome sequencing, and potentially much higher for specialized applications or very high throughput.
- Genotyping (e.g., SNP genotyping via qPCR or microarrays): Prices can range from 500 ETB to 3,000 ETB per sample, depending on the number of markers.
- Bioinformatics Analysis: Basic sequence alignment and variant calling might start from 1,000 ETB per sample. More complex analyses, such as differential gene expression, de novo assembly, or population genetics studies, can range from 5,000 ETB to 50,000+ ETB per project, depending on the data size and complexity of the analysis required.
- Consultation Services: Initial consultations or project design can sometimes be billed separately or incorporated into project costs, often at an hourly rate of 500 ETB to 1,500 ETB per hour.
Note: These figures are rough estimates and are subject to change. It is always recommended to contact the specific genomics core facility directly for a precise quote tailored to your project's requirements.
| Service Category | Estimated Price Range (ETB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DNA/RNA Extraction | 200 - 1,000 per sample | Varies by sample type and kit |
| PCR/qPCR | 150 - 600 per reaction (PCR) 500 - 2,500 per sample (qPCR) | Depends on number of targets and plate size for qPCR |
| Sanger Sequencing | 800 - 2,500 per sample | Includes basic analysis |
| NGS Library Preparation | 1,500 - 15,000+ per sample | Highly dependent on library type (amplicon, WGS, exome) |
| NGS Sequencing Run | 5,000 - 20,000+ per sample | Depends on sequencing depth and platform |
| Genotyping (e.g., SNP) | 500 - 3,000 per sample | Varies by number of markers |
| Bioinformatics Analysis | 1,000+ per sample (basic) 5,000 - 50,000+ per project (complex) | Complexity and data size are key factors |
| Consultation Services | 500 - 1,500 per hour | For project design and advice |
Factors Influencing Genomics Core Facility Costs in Ethiopia
- Type of genomic service (e.g., DNA extraction, sequencing, bioinformatics)
- Specific technology and platform employed (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, qPCR)
- Volume of samples to be processed (bulk discounts)
- Cost of imported reagents, kits, and consumables
- Labor costs, including skilled scientists and technicians
- Equipment maintenance, software licenses, and depreciation
- Complexity and scope of bioinformatics and data analysis
- Facility overhead (utilities, rent, administration)
- Provider type (academic vs. commercial core facilities)
- Project customization and non-standard protocols
Affordable Genomics Core Facilities Options
Establishing or accessing genomics services can be a significant investment for research institutions. Fortunately, there are several options and strategies to make cutting-edge genomic technologies more affordable. This guide explores options for affordable genomics core facilities, focusing on the value offered by bundled services and effective cost-saving strategies.
| Strategy | Description | Potential Cost Savings | Implementation Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leverage Institutional Cores | Utilize dedicated genomics core facilities within your institution. | Significant, due to economies of scale and shared infrastructure. | Understand internal pricing and service offerings. Engage with core directors early. |
| Value Bundles | Purchase integrated service packages (e.g., library prep + sequencing + basic analysis). | 10-25% discount compared to à la carte services. | Compare bundle contents to your specific needs. Ensure all necessary components are included. |
| Collaborative Purchasing | Partner with other labs or institutions for bulk reagent or consumable orders. | 5-15% on consumables and reagents. | Identify common needs. Establish a clear purchasing and distribution process. |
| Optimize Sample Preparation | Invest time in high-quality sample collection and processing. | Reduces failed experiments and re-runs (potentially saving 100% of the cost of a failed experiment). | Develop standardized protocols. Seek advice from core staff. |
| Technology Selection | Choose the sequencing platform and depth appropriate for your research question. | Can range from 20-70% savings depending on the technology chosen (e.g., whole genome vs. targeted panels). | Consult with bioinformaticians and core facility staff to determine optimal parameters. |
| Negotiate with External Providers | Engage in discussions about pricing for large projects or long-term contracts. | Can vary widely, potentially 5-20% or more. | Be prepared to walk away if terms are not favorable. Get multiple quotes. |
Affordable Genomics Core Facilities: Options and Strategies
- {"title":"Understanding Value Bundles","description":"Value bundles in core facilities are packages of services, reagents, and sometimes even instrument time offered at a discounted rate compared to purchasing each component individually. These bundles are designed to streamline workflows and provide comprehensive solutions for common research needs."}
- {"items":["Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) Bundle: Often includes library preparation, sequencing, and basic bioinformatics analysis (e.g., variant calling).","Exome Sequencing Bundle: Similar to WGS but focused on protein-coding regions, typically offering a lower price point. Includes library prep, sequencing, and annotation.","RNA-Seq Bundle: Covers RNA extraction, library preparation, sequencing, and initial quality control/alignment.","Single-Cell Sequencing Bundle: May include cell isolation, library preparation, sequencing, and preliminary data processing.","Custom Panel Sequencing Bundle: For targeted sequencing of specific genes or regions, often including primer design, library prep, and sequencing."],"title":"Common Value Bundle Examples"}
- {"items":["Shared Resources & Core Facilities: Leveraging existing institutional core facilities is often the most cost-effective approach. Cores benefit from economies of scale, shared expertise, and pooled instrument purchases.","Collaborative Purchasing: Institutions can collaborate to negotiate better bulk discounts on reagents, consumables, and even instrument maintenance contracts.","Service Provider Negotiation: For external service providers, don't hesitate to negotiate pricing, especially for large projects or long-term commitments. Inquire about tiered pricing or volume discounts.","Optimizing Sample Numbers & Quality: High-quality, well-prepared samples reduce repeat experiments and wasted resources. Careful experimental design to minimize the number of samples needed is crucial.","Exploring Different Technologies: Not all projects require the highest-throughput or most expensive sequencing platforms. Assess the minimum data quality and coverage required for your research question to select the most appropriate technology.","DIY vs. Outsourcing Analysis: While core facilities often offer bioinformatics services, performing some analysis in-house (if expertise exists) can save costs. Conversely, outsourcing complex analysis can be more efficient than hiring specialized personnel.","Grant Funding: Actively seek grant opportunities that support core facility usage, equipment acquisition, or specific genomic projects.","Consortia & Multi-Institutional Agreements: Joining research consortia can lead to shared access to specialized equipment or negotiated rates for services across multiple institutions.","Internal Chargeback Models: Well-structured internal chargeback models within an institution ensure that core facilities are sustainable and that users are aware of the true cost of services, encouraging efficient use."],"title":"Cost-Saving Strategies for Genomics"}
- {"items":["Service Breadth and Depth: Does the facility offer the specific assays and analyses you need?","Expertise and Support: What level of scientific and technical support is provided?","Turnaround Time: How quickly can you expect your results?","Data Management and Storage: What are their policies for data handling and access?","Pricing Structure: Is it transparent, and are there clear discounts for bundled services or high volume?","Instrument Availability and Upgrades: Are their instruments state-of-the-art and well-maintained?"],"title":"Key Considerations When Choosing a Core Facility"}
Verified Providers In Ethiopia
In Ethiopia's burgeoning healthcare landscape, discerning patients seek reliable and credentialed providers. Franance Health stands out as a beacon of trust, offering a comprehensive network of verified healthcare professionals and facilities. This commitment to verification ensures that patients receive high-quality care, ethical treatment, and access to the best possible medical outcomes. Franance Health's rigorous vetting process not only identifies skilled practitioners but also those who adhere to the highest professional standards, prioritizing patient well-being and transparent communication. Choosing Franance Health means opting for peace of mind and assured quality in your healthcare journey.
| Credentialing Aspect | Franance Health's Approach | Patient Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Licenses & Registrations | Verified with relevant Ethiopian medical boards and regulatory bodies. | Ensures providers are legally qualified and authorized to practice. |
| Educational Background & Qualifications | Confirmation of degrees, diplomas, and specialized training from accredited institutions. | Guarantees a strong foundation of medical knowledge and expertise. |
| Professional Experience & Reputation | Background checks and reference verifications for established practitioners. | Provides assurance of practical skills and a history of quality patient care. |
| Specialty Certifications | Validation of advanced certifications in specific medical fields. | Confirms specialized expertise for complex medical conditions. |
| Adherence to Standards of Care | Ongoing monitoring and commitment to upholding national and international healthcare standards. | Promotes consistent, safe, and effective medical treatment. |
Why Franance Health is Your Best Choice for Verified Healthcare in Ethiopia:
- Rigorous Credentialing: Each provider undergoes a thorough verification of their licenses, certifications, and educational background.
- Commitment to Ethical Practice: Franance Health partners with practitioners who demonstrate a strong adherence to medical ethics and patient-centered care.
- Access to Diverse Specialties: Our network encompasses a wide range of medical disciplines, ensuring you find the right specialist for your needs.
- Patient-Centric Approach: We prioritize patient satisfaction, comfort, and clear communication throughout your healthcare experience.
- Enhanced Trust and Transparency: Our verification process builds confidence and provides a transparent overview of provider qualifications.
Scope Of Work For Genomics Core Facilities
This document outlines the Scope of Work (SOW) for Genomics Core Facilities, detailing technical deliverables and standard specifications. It aims to provide a clear framework for services offered, ensuring quality, consistency, and reproducibility in genomic research.
| Service Area | Technical Deliverables | Standard Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Sample Submission and Processing | Receipt of samples, quality assessment (e.g., DNA/RNA quantity, purity), sample normalization. | Minimum input DNA/RNA concentration, acceptable RIN/integrity scores, standardized labeling protocols, chain of custody. |
| Library Preparation | Construction of sequencing-ready libraries from various sample types (e.g., DNA, RNA, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq). | Library yield, insert size distribution, adapter contamination limits, multiplexing strategies. |
| Sequencing Technologies and Platforms | High-throughput sequencing using specified platforms (e.g., Illumina NovaSeq, PacBio Sequel, Oxford Nanopore MinION). | Read length, read accuracy, throughput (e.g., Gbases/run), data output format (e.g., FASTQ, BAM). |
| Data Generation and Quality Control | Raw sequencing data generation, initial quality assessment of raw reads (e.g., Q-scores, adapter content, GC bias). | Minimum Q30 base percentage, per-base quality scores, read duplication rates, sequence contamination checks. |
| Data Analysis and Bioinformatics Support | Alignment to reference genomes, variant calling, gene expression quantification, differential gene expression analysis, de novo assembly. | Alignment rate, coverage depth, variant calling sensitivity/specificity, statistical rigor of differential analysis, appropriate bioinformatics pipelines and tools. |
| Reporting and Deliverables | Delivery of processed data, summary reports, QC metrics, raw data files, analysis results (e.g., tables, figures, annotated genomes). | Standardized report template, timely delivery of data and reports, data archiving policies. |
| Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Best Practices | Adherence to documented SOPs for all wet lab and dry lab procedures, implementation of best practices in laboratory management and data handling. | Well-defined and version-controlled SOPs, regular training of personnel, adherence to biosafety guidelines. |
| Equipment and Infrastructure | Maintenance and calibration of sequencing instruments, library preparation equipment, and bioinformatics servers. | Regular instrument servicing, validated bioinformatics infrastructure, secure data storage. |
| Personnel and Expertise | Provision of skilled personnel for experimental design, sample handling, library preparation, sequencing, and data analysis. | Qualified research scientists, bioinformaticians, and laboratory technicians with relevant experience. |
| Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Turnaround Times | Commitment to agreed-upon turnaround times for various services and data deliverables. | Clearly defined TAT for each service tier, communication protocols for delays. |
Key Areas Covered in the Genomics Core Facility SOW
- Sample Submission and Processing
- Library Preparation
- Sequencing Technologies and Platforms
- Data Generation and Quality Control
- Data Analysis and Bioinformatics Support
- Reporting and Deliverables
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Best Practices
- Equipment and Infrastructure
- Personnel and Expertise
- Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Turnaround Times
Service Level Agreement For Genomics Core Facilities
This Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlines the guaranteed response times and uptime for the Genomics Core Facilities. It defines the expected performance levels for services provided to researchers and establishes procedures for addressing any deviations from these standards.
| Service Category | Response Time (for initial query/support request) | Uptime Guarantee | Reporting/Escalation Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Inquiry & Consultation | 24 Business Hours | N/A (Support availability) | Email support: <24 business hours for initial response. Phone support: During operational hours. |
| Technical Support (e.g., instrument troubleshooting, experimental design advice) | 8 Business Hours | N/A (Support availability) | Email/Ticketing System: <8 business hours for initial assessment. On-site support may be scheduled based on urgency. |
| Library Preparation & Sample Processing | 1-2 Business Days (for initial assessment/scheduling) | 95% Uptime (for critical instrumentation) | For delays beyond 48 hours of scheduled start, client will be notified within 1 business day. |
| Sequencing Services (instrument operation) | N/A (focus on data delivery) | 98% Uptime (for core sequencing platforms) | For scheduled downtime, notice will be given at least 1 week in advance. Unexpected downtime exceeding 24 hours will trigger a review. |
| Data Delivery | As per project agreement (e.g., X days post-sequencing completion) | N/A (Focus on timely delivery) | If delivery is delayed beyond the agreed timeline, the client will be notified within 1 business day of the projected delay. |
| Bioinformatics Support (post-analysis) | 2-3 Business Days (for initial analysis questions) | N/A (Support availability) | Email/Ticketing System: <2 business days for initial response. Complex analyses may have separate timelines agreed upon. |
Scope of Services Covered
- DNA Sequencing (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Nanopore)
- RNA Sequencing (e.g., mRNA-Seq, scRNA-Seq)
- Genotyping and SNP analysis
- Library Preparation Services
- Bioinformatics Support (for data analysis related to core services)
- Sample QC and Biomarkers analysis
Frequently Asked Questions

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