
Genomics Core Facilities in Mauritius
Engineering Excellence & Technical Support
Genomics Core Facilities solutions for Research & Discovery (R&D). High-standard technical execution following OEM protocols and local regulatory frameworks.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Expertise
Leveraging state-of-the-art Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms, our Genomics Core Facility offers a comprehensive suite of NGS services, from whole-genome and exome sequencing to targeted amplicon sequencing and metagenomics. We provide rapid, high-throughput data generation and robust bioinformatics support for diverse research applications, including disease diagnostics, evolutionary studies, and agricultural innovation in Mauritius.
Advanced Bioinformatics & Data Analysis
Our dedicated bioinformatics team provides cutting-edge data analysis pipelines and statistical interpretation for genomic datasets. We specialize in variant calling, differential gene expression analysis, phylogenetic reconstruction, and population genetics, empowering researchers across Mauritius to unlock critical insights from their sequencing data and accelerate scientific discovery.
High-Quality Sample Preparation & Quality Control
Ensuring the integrity of your research starts with meticulous sample preparation. Our Genomics Core Facility employs standardized protocols for DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, and rigorous quality control using Qubit and Agilent Bioanalyzer systems. This commitment to excellence guarantees high-quality input for all sequencing experiments, maximizing the reliability and reproducibility of your genomic research in Mauritius.
What Is Genomics Core Facilities In Mauritius?
Genomics Core Facilities in Mauritius represent centralized, shared resources offering specialized expertise and advanced instrumentation for high-throughput DNA and RNA sequencing, genotyping, epigenomic analysis, and other related genomic technologies. These facilities serve as critical infrastructure for advancing biological research, clinical diagnostics, and biotechnological applications within the Mauritian scientific community. They provide access to cutting-edge technologies and bioinformatics support, enabling researchers and institutions to conduct sophisticated genomic studies that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive or technically challenging to establish independently. The service involves sample preparation, library construction, sequencing on platforms such as Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, or PacBio, followed by primary data processing and quality control. Advanced bioinformatics analysis, including genome assembly, variant calling, transcriptomic profiling, and functional annotation, is also a core component.
| Use Case Category | Specific Application Examples | Genomic Technologies Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Human Health & Diagnostics | Whole Genome/Exome Sequencing for rare genetic disorders, cancer genomics (tumor sequencing, liquid biopsy), infectious disease surveillance (e.g., COVID-19 sequencing), pharmacogenomics, microbiome analysis. | Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) - Illumina NovaSeq/MiSeq, PacBio HiFi Sequencing, Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) MinION/PromethION. |
| Agriculture & Food Security | Genotyping for marker-assisted selection in crops and livestock, whole genome resequencing for trait discovery, transcriptome analysis for stress response, pest and disease resistance screening, aquaculture genetics. | NGS (Illumina), SNP arrays, ddRADseq, RNA-Seq. |
| Biodiversity & Conservation | Population genomics for endangered species, phylogenomics for evolutionary studies, environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding for biodiversity assessment, identification of invasive species, forensic genetics. | NGS (Illumina), ONT Nanopore Sequencing, targeted sequencing. |
| Basic & Applied Biological Research | Gene expression profiling (RNA-Seq), epigenomic studies (ChIP-Seq, ATAC-Seq), de novo genome assembly, functional genomics screens, comparative genomics. | NGS (Illumina, PacBio), ONT Nanopore Sequencing. |
| Biotechnology Development | Development of novel diagnostic kits, discovery of therapeutic targets, synthetic biology applications, strain improvement for industrial biotechnology. | NGS (various platforms), CRISPR screening, metagenomics. |
Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities and Typical Use Cases:
- {"title":"Academic Research Institutions","description":"Universities and research centers in Mauritius require these facilities for basic and applied research across various disciplines, including molecular biology, genetics, evolutionary biology, and ecology."}
- {"title":"Medical and Clinical Laboratories","description":"Hospitals and diagnostic centers utilize genomics services for pathogen identification, antimicrobial resistance profiling, genetic disease diagnosis, and personalized medicine initiatives."}
- {"title":"Agricultural and Veterinary Sectors","description":"Organizations involved in agriculture and animal husbandry employ genomics for crop and livestock improvement, disease outbreak surveillance, and conservation genetics."}
- {"title":"Environmental Agencies and Conservation Bodies","description":"Government agencies and NGOs focused on biodiversity conservation, environmental monitoring, and invasive species management benefit from genomic tools for population genetics and phylogenetics."}
- {"title":"Biotechnology Companies and Start-ups","description":"Emerging biotech companies can leverage core facilities for R&D, product development, and proof-of-concept studies, reducing upfront capital investment."}
Who Needs Genomics Core Facilities In Mauritius?
The establishment and utilization of genomics core facilities in Mauritius are crucial for advancing scientific research, public health, agriculture, and economic development. These facilities provide essential infrastructure, advanced technologies, and expert support that are often beyond the capabilities of individual research groups. By centralizing these resources, Mauritius can foster a collaborative research environment, attract top talent, and drive innovation across various sectors.
| Target Customer/Department | Key Genomics Applications and Needs | Potential Benefits of Core Facility |
|---|---|---|
| Academic and Research Institutions (e.g., University of Mauritius, Research Institutes) | Basic research in molecular biology, genetics, and evolution; disease mechanisms; drug discovery; training of students and researchers. | Access to state-of-the-art sequencing (e.g., whole genome, exome, RNA-Seq), genotyping, bioinformatics support, and specialized equipment (e.g., qPCR, ddPCR). |
| Ministry of Health and Wellness | Pathogen surveillance and outbreak investigation (infectious diseases like dengue, COVID-19, chikungunya); diagnostics; personalized medicine initiatives; genetic predisposition to non-communicable diseases. | Rapid and accurate diagnostic capabilities; epidemiological tracking; development of public health strategies; improved patient care through genetic insights. |
| Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Security | Crop and livestock improvement (e.g., identifying genes for yield, disease resistance, climate resilience); pest and disease diagnostics; food safety and traceability; aquaculture research. | Enhanced agricultural productivity and sustainability; development of improved crop varieties and livestock breeds; early detection of agricultural threats. |
| Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change | Biodiversity assessment and conservation; species identification; monitoring of environmental impacts; understanding ecological interactions. | Informed conservation strategies; accurate species identification; assessment of genetic diversity for ecosystem health; research into climate change adaptation in local flora and fauna. |
| Private Sector (Biotech, Pharma, Diagnostic Companies) | Drug development and validation; diagnostic assay development; personalized medicine services; genetic testing for various applications. | Cost-effective access to high-throughput sequencing and analysis; faster research and development cycles; potential for local innovation and service provision. |
| Veterinary Services | Animal disease diagnostics; genetic improvement of livestock; understanding zoonotic diseases. | Improved animal health management; enhanced livestock productivity; contribution to One Health initiatives. |
| Forensic Science Laboratory | DNA profiling for criminal investigations and identification; paternity testing. | Enhanced accuracy and efficiency in forensic investigations; robust DNA database management. |
Target Customers and Departments for Genomics Core Facilities in Mauritius
- Academic and Research Institutions
- Government Ministries and Agencies
- Healthcare Providers and Public Health Laboratories
- Agricultural and Agribusiness Sector
- Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies
- Environmental and Conservation Organizations
Genomics Core Facilities Process In Mauritius
Genomics core facilities in Mauritius operate with a structured workflow to ensure efficient and accurate processing of research samples. This workflow typically begins with an initial inquiry from a researcher and culminates in the delivery of high-quality genomic data. The process involves several key stages, including pre-analysis consultation, sample submission, experimental execution, data processing, and final reporting.
| Stage | Description | Key Activities | Responsible Parties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inquiry and Consultation | Initial contact from researcher to discuss project needs and feasibility. | Define project scope, experimental approach, required data output, timelines, and budget. Discuss sample requirements and best practices. Provide quotes. Formalize service agreements. | Researcher, Core Facility Staff (Scientists/Managers) |
| Sample Submission and Quality Control | Researcher submits samples to the core facility with accompanying documentation. | Receive and log samples. Perform initial quality control (e.g., DNA/RNA concentration, purity, integrity assessment using spectrophotometry, fluorometry, or gel electrophoresis). Reject samples that do not meet minimum quality standards. | Researcher, Core Facility Staff (Technicians/Scientists) |
| Experimental Design and Planning | Detailed planning of the specific genomic assay or experiment. | Select appropriate assay (e.g., whole-genome sequencing, targeted sequencing, RNA-Seq, genotyping arrays). Optimize protocols. Plan reagent procurement and experimental run scheduling. | Core Facility Staff (Scientists/Bioinformaticians), Researcher |
| Sample Preparation and Library Construction | Preparing samples for the chosen genomic technology. | DNA/RNA extraction (if not done by researcher). Fragmentation, end-repair, adapter ligation, amplification, and purification to create sequencing libraries or prepare for genotyping. | Core Facility Staff (Technicians/Scientists) |
| Sequencing/Genotyping | Execution of the primary genomic data generation. | Loading libraries onto sequencing instruments (e.g., Illumina, Oxford Nanopore) or performing hybridization on genotyping arrays. Running the instrument according to optimized protocols. | Core Facility Staff (Technicians/Scientists) |
| Data Processing and Analysis | Converting raw instrument output into usable genomic data. | Base calling and quality assessment of raw sequencing reads. Alignment to reference genomes. Variant calling, gene expression quantification, or genotype calling. Initial QC of analyzed data. | Core Facility Staff (Bioinformaticians/Scientists) |
| Data Delivery and Interpretation Support | Providing the processed data and assisting with its understanding. | Delivery of raw and processed data files (e.g., FASTQ, BAM, VCF, expression matrices). Provide summary reports. Offer consultation for data interpretation and downstream analysis planning. May involve collaboration with bioinformaticians. | Core Facility Staff (Bioinformaticians/Scientists), Researcher |
| Billing and Reporting | Finalizing the service and invoicing. | Generate final invoice based on services rendered. Compile comprehensive project report. Archive data according to institutional policy. | Core Facility Administration, Researcher |
Genomics Core Facilities Process in Mauritius: Workflow Stages
- Inquiry and Consultation
- Sample Submission and Quality Control
- Experimental Design and Planning
- Sample Preparation and Library Construction
- Sequencing/Genotyping
- Data Processing and Analysis
- Data Delivery and Interpretation Support
- Billing and Reporting
Genomics Core Facilities Cost In Mauritius
Genomics core facilities in Mauritius, like elsewhere, are influenced by a variety of factors that dictate their pricing structures. The cost of services offered by these facilities is not uniform and can vary significantly based on the complexity of the assay, the required throughput, the type of technology employed, and the specific expertise needed from the facility staff. Furthermore, the cost of reagents, consumables, and specialized equipment maintenance plays a crucial role. For local and international researchers, understanding these pricing dynamics is essential for budgeting and project planning.
The pricing models often involve per-sample costs for standardized assays, but for more complex projects or custom sequencing needs, project-based pricing or hourly rates for staff time might be implemented. The scale of the project is a major determinant; larger-scale projects often benefit from economies of scale, leading to lower per-unit costs. The level of data analysis and bioinformatics support required also adds to the overall cost, as sophisticated interpretation of genomic data demands specialized skills and computational resources.
While precise, publicly available pricing lists for all Mauritian genomics core facilities can be challenging to obtain due to the often bespoke nature of services and institutional pricing policies, general ranges can be inferred based on common industry practices and regional cost considerations. For standard services like DNA extraction or basic PCR, costs might be in the lower range. However, advanced applications such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation, sequencing runs, and in-depth bioinformatics analysis will command significantly higher prices. The currency of pricing is typically Mauritian Rupees (MUR).
| Service Category (Indicative) | Indicative Price Range (MUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DNA/RNA Extraction (per sample) | 2,000 - 5,000 | Varies with tissue type and extraction kit |
| Standard PCR/qPCR (per sample, per reaction) | 500 - 1,500 | Depends on number of targets/primers |
| Genotyping (e.g., SNP analysis, per sample) | 3,000 - 8,000 | Can depend on the number of SNPs and genotyping platform |
| NGS Library Preparation (per sample) | 8,000 - 25,000 | Varies by library type (e.g., WGS, WES, RNA-Seq) and kit used |
| NGS Sequencing Run (per lane/flow cell) | 30,000 - 150,000+ | Highly dependent on instrument and read length/depth |
| Basic Data Analysis (e.g., raw read processing, QC) | 5,000 - 20,000 | Per project, can increase with complexity |
| Advanced Bioinformatics & Interpretation | Hourly Rate: 2,000 - 6,000 | or Project-based pricing depending on scope |
Key Pricing Factors for Genomics Core Facilities in Mauritius
- Type of genomic application (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, NGS, genotyping, epigenomics)
- Throughput requirements (number of samples)
- Technology platforms used (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Oxford Nanopore, specific PCR machines)
- Reagent and consumable costs
- Data analysis and bioinformatics support level
- Staff expertise and labor costs
- Equipment maintenance and depreciation
- Customization of services
- Institutional overhead and administrative costs
Affordable Genomics Core Facilities Options
Establishing and maintaining an affordable genomics core facility requires a strategic approach to equipment acquisition, service provisioning, and operational efficiency. Leveraging value bundles and implementing cost-saving strategies are crucial for maximizing research output within budget constraints. Value bundles often combine hardware, software, reagents, and support services into a package, offering better overall pricing and streamlined procurement. Cost-saving strategies encompass bulk purchasing, shared resource utilization, service optimization, and exploring alternative technology platforms.
| Strategy | Description | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Value Bundles (Hardware + Software + Reagents + Support) | Purchasing integrated packages from a single vendor can often lead to discounted pricing and simplified vendor management. | 5-20% on capital equipment and consumables. |
| Bulk Purchasing of Reagents & Consumables | Negotiating significant discounts by committing to larger quantities of commonly used reagents and consumables. | 10-30% on high-volume items. |
| Shared Instrumentation & Core Facility Services | Establishing a central core facility that serves multiple research groups reduces individual capital investment and operational overhead. | Up to 80% reduction in capital expenditure per lab; 30-60% reduction in operational costs. |
| Service Contracts & Preventative Maintenance | Investing in comprehensive service contracts can prevent costly emergency repairs and prolong instrument lifespan. | Reduces unexpected repair costs by 50-75%; extends instrument life by years. |
| Optimized Workflow Design & Automation | Streamlining sample preparation and library construction through automation can significantly reduce labor costs and increase throughput. | 20-50% reduction in labor costs per sample; increased throughput. |
| Cloud Computing for Data Analysis | Utilizing scalable cloud platforms for data storage and analysis can be more cost-effective than maintaining on-premise infrastructure, especially for fluctuating workloads. | Variable, but can be 10-40% cheaper than in-house HPC for some workloads. |
| Vendor Negotiations & Competitive Bidding | Actively negotiating prices with multiple vendors and conducting competitive bidding for equipment and services. | Can yield 5-15% savings on various procurements. |
| Reagent Compatibility & Third-Party Options | Exploring validated third-party reagent options where performance is comparable to proprietary kits, but at a lower cost. | 10-30% savings on specific reagents. |
Key Considerations for Affordable Genomics Core Facilities
- Technology Selection: Prioritize platforms that offer the best cost-per-base or cost-per-sample for your typical research needs.
- Reagent Management: Implement just-in-time ordering, negotiate bulk discounts, and explore compatible third-party reagents where validated.
- Staffing & Training: Optimize staffing levels, cross-train personnel, and leverage vendor training programs.
- Data Storage & Analysis: Develop cost-effective data management solutions and explore cloud-based or shared computational resources.
- Instrument Maintenance: Negotiate comprehensive service contracts and establish preventative maintenance schedules to avoid costly breakdowns.
- Workflow Automation: Invest in automated liquid handling and sample preparation systems to reduce labor costs and improve throughput.
- Collaboration & Shared Resources: Partner with other institutions or departments to share expensive equipment and expertise.
Verified Providers In Mauritius
In Mauritius, ensuring you are accessing legitimate and high-quality healthcare services is paramount. This is where the importance of 'Verified Providers' comes into play. Verified Providers are healthcare professionals, clinics, and hospitals that have undergone rigorous checks and meet specific standards for quality, safety, and ethical practice. Franance Health stands out as a leading entity in facilitating access to such verified providers, offering a trusted pathway to reliable healthcare solutions in Mauritius.
| Verification Criteria | Franance Health's Standard | Benefit to Patients |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Licensing & Accreditation | Mandatory verification of all official licenses and accreditations from recognized regulatory bodies. | Ensures providers are legally qualified and adhere to professional standards. |
| Clinical Experience & Specialization | Thorough review of years of practice, specialized training, and areas of expertise. | Connects patients with highly skilled and experienced healthcare professionals in their specific medical needs. |
| Patient Feedback & Reputation | Systematic collection and analysis of patient testimonials and overall practice reputation. | Provides insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction experienced by others. |
| Adherence to Ethical Standards | Confirmation of commitment to ethical medical practices, patient confidentiality, and informed consent. | Guarantees that patients will receive respectful, transparent, and morally sound medical treatment. |
| Facility Standards (where applicable) | Assessment of clinic/hospital infrastructure, equipment, hygiene, and safety protocols. | Ensures a safe, clean, and well-equipped environment for medical procedures and treatment. |
Why Franance Health Credentials Represent the Best Choice:
- Rigorous Vetting Process: Franance Health employs a multi-stage verification process that goes beyond basic licensing. This includes scrutinizing credentials, qualifications, experience, patient reviews, and adherence to international best practices.
- Commitment to Quality Assurance: We continuously monitor the performance and standards of our network of providers, ensuring ongoing compliance and upholding the highest levels of patient care.
- Transparency and Trust: Our platform provides clear and accessible information about each verified provider, allowing patients to make informed decisions with confidence.
- Focus on Patient Well-being: Franance Health prioritizes patient safety, satisfaction, and positive health outcomes, making their well-being the cornerstone of our verification process.
- Access to Specialized Expertise: We connect you with a diverse range of verified specialists and facilities, ensuring you can find the exact care you need, from routine check-ups to complex medical procedures.
- Streamlined Healthcare Journey: By partnering with verified providers, Franance Health simplifies your healthcare experience, reducing the stress and uncertainty often associated with seeking medical attention.
Scope Of Work For Genomics Core Facilities
This Scope of Work (SOW) outlines the technical deliverables and standard specifications for the Genomics Core Facility. The facility aims to provide researchers with state-of-the-art genomic services, including library preparation, high-throughput sequencing, and data analysis. This document details the expected outputs and quality standards for each service offered.
| Service Area | Technical Deliverables | Standard Specifications | Quality Metrics | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NGS Library Preparation | Barcoded DNA/RNA libraries | Library insert size distribution (e.g., 300-600 bp for whole genome sequencing) | Library yield (e.g., >10 ng/µL) | Library purity (e.g., A260/A280 ratio >1.8) | Adapter contamination (<5%) | |
| High-Throughput Sequencing | Raw sequence data (FASTQ files) | Sequencing depth (e.g., >30x coverage for whole genome sequencing) | Read length (e.g., 150 bp paired-end) | Sequencing error rate (<0.1%) | Base quality score distribution (e.g., Phred score >Q30 for >80% of bases) | |
| Bioinformatics and Data Analysis | Aligned sequence data (BAM/SAM files) | Variant calls (VCF files) | Gene expression matrices (e.g., TPM, FPKM) | Quality reports on alignment and variant calling | Annotation of variants | Statistical analysis of differential gene expression |
| Quality Control and Assurance | Instrument QC reports | Reagent QC certificates | Internal process validation reports | Traceability of all reagents and consumables used per project | Documentation of all experimental steps |
Genomics Core Facility Services
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Library Preparation
- High-Throughput Sequencing
- Bioinformatics and Data Analysis
- Quality Control and Assurance
Service Level Agreement For Genomics Core Facilities
This Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlines the guaranteed response times and uptime for services provided by the Genomics Core Facility. It aims to ensure reliable and timely access to critical genomic services for our users.
| Service Category | Response Time Target (Business Hours) | Uptime Guarantee (%) | Notes/Exclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| NGS Data Generation (Sample Submission to Raw Data Delivery) | 5 business days for standard library prep, 10 business days for complex libraries (excluding sequencing run time) | 98% | Excludes scheduled maintenance, force majeure events. Sequencing run time is dependent on instrument queue. |
| Genotyping/SNP Analysis (Sample Submission to Data Report) | 7 business days | 97% | Excludes complex experimental designs or large sample sets requiring extensive QC. |
| Gene Expression Profiling (Sample Submission to Data Report) | 5 business days | 98% | Excludes large-scale projects or custom assay development. |
| DNA/RNA Extraction & QC (Sample Submission to QC Report) | 2 business days | 99% | Assumes timely delivery of samples and appropriate labeling. |
| Bioinformatic Analysis Support (Initial Consultation to Report Draft) | 3 business days for initial consultation, 7-14 business days for standard analysis (project dependent) | N/A | Response time for analysis is an estimate and depends on project complexity, data volume, and analyst availability. Prioritization may be applied. |
| Equipment/Instrument Uptime (General Availability) | Immediate reporting of issues, aim for resolution within 1 business day | 99.5% | Excludes scheduled preventative maintenance. Downtime for critical repairs may exceed 1 business day. |
Scope of Services Covered
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data generation
- Genotyping and SNP analysis
- Gene expression profiling (e.g., qPCR, microarrays)
- DNA/RNA extraction and quality control
- Bioinformatic analysis support (as per defined tiers)
Frequently Asked Questions

Ready when you are
Let's scope your Genomics Core Facilities in Mauritius project in Mauritius.
Scaling healthcare logistics and technical systems across the entire continent.

