Lab Automation for a Genomics Shared Resources

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Project Summary/Abstract The goal of this application is to improve and streamline the operating processes and procedures in the Analytical and Translational Genomics (ATG) Shared Resource, a key core facility focused on next-generation sequencing and genomics technologies in the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center (UNMCCC). We are requesting funds for nucleic acid extraction equipment. Specifically, a Qiagen EZ2 Connect automated nucleic acid purification robot. Adding this instrument to the ATG Shared Resource will modernize and automate the successful workflows that are already in place and will improve throughput, expand the menu of services and lead to reduced costs and faster turnaround for our users. The requested equipment will automate procedures that are now performed by hand by the ATG technical staff, allowing them to focus on more complex downstream activities, such as preparing various types of sequencing libraries. The requested equipment is not a scientific research instrument that acquires experimental data, but it will significantly enhance support operations and will benefit the user community and multiple research projects of many investigators. ATG is partially supported by UNMCCC, one of only three NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in an NIH Institutional Development Award (IDeA) Program-eligible state. ATG is widely used by laboratories at UNM. In the last 5 years ATG billed 73 UNM laboratories for nearly $1.75 million in user fees for genomics services. The requested equipment will complement and augment recent investments in new sequencing instruments, made with funds from UNMCCC and the UNM Health Sciences Center, and will greatly benefit a wide range of users, both UNMCCC members and non-members, who utilize the genomics services provided by ATG.