Genetics Core

This core provides Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) library prep and sequencing resources to on- and off-campus researchers in and near Santa Barbara, CA. NGS (also known as High Throughput Sequencing) experiments are conducted on the Illumina NextSeq 500 which uses the same widely accepted technology found in other popular Illumina sequencers such as the HiSeq and MiSeq.

We are the only Illumina NGS facility in Santa Barbara and surrounding areas. The BNL is also the only facility within the UC system with a NextSeq 500. The versatile NextSeq 500 was selected to be our first instrument as it is a flexible platform, accommodating a variety of sequencing experiments. RNA-Seq, DNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq or targeted sequencing are just some of the types of NGS runs that can be performed on the NextSeq 500.

NGS samples can be prepped and submitted in the following ways:

  1. Sequencing done by BNL staff while library prep is done by user in their lab
  2. Library prep done by user in the BNL and sequencing by BNL staff
  3. Library prep and sequencing done by BNL staff

Equipment

1) Illumina NextSeq 500

The NextSeq 500 desktop sequencing system provides the flexible power and simplicity to analyze whole genomes, exomes, and transcriptomes. Mid and High output kits allow for sequencing of nucleic acids up to 300 bp and 400 million reads. Fast throughput allows results within 30 hrs or less.

Illumina MiSeq

2) Illumina MiSeq

The MiSeq desktop sequencing system allows access to focused applications such as metagenomics, targeted gene expression, and small genone sequencing, and more. Multiple output kits are available for up to 15 Gb of sequencing and 2 x 300 bp read lengths.

3) Agilent TapeStation

The TapeStation is a fast and simple method for nucleic acid analysis. Genomic DNA, RNA and prepped dsDNA libraries can be analyzed with the instrument to obtain size distribution and concentration.

4) Bio-Rad QX200 ddPCR

Precise and sensitive digital PCR for a wide variety of applications, flexible PCR chemistry with user-friendly software for experimental set up and analysis.

CFX96 Touch Real-Time PCR Detection System

5) Bio-Rad CFX96 Touch RT-PCR

The CFX96 Touch System is a high precision, flexible Real-Time quantitative PCR system. The CFX96 Touch combines advanced optical technology with precise temperature control, for a fast and sensitive detection system for singleplex and multiplex reactions. 

Beckman-Coulter Biomek 4000 Workstation

6) Beckman-Coulter Biomek 4000 Workstation

The Biomek 4000 Automated Workstation is an liquid handler for robotic pipetting of 1-1000 ul. 

7) Covaris M220 Focused-ultrasonicator

The Covaris M220 mechanically shears DNA for Next Generation Sequencing applications requiring fragment sizes between 150bp and 5kb.

Qubit Fluorometer

8) Invitrogen Qubit 2.0

The Qubit 2.0 fluorometer allows the quantitation of DNA, RNA, and protein using the highly sensitive and accurate fluorescence-based Qubit quantitation assays. Assays are specific for the nucleic acid measured, eg. ssDNA, dsDNA, or RNA.

Sage Science BluePippin

9) Sage Science BluePippin

The Pippin Prep allows researchers to quickly and easily collect narrow or wide size extractions from mixtures of DNA fragments.

Contact

Jennifer Smith

Manager, Biological Nanostructures Laboratory
Phone: 
(805) 893-6082
Email: 
jsmith@cnsi.ucsb.edu

Acknowledging Support

Please remember to acknowledge CNSI resources in scientific publications and presentations by including this statement:

“The authors acknowledge the use of the Biological Nanostructures Laboratory within the California NanoSystems Institute, supported by the University of California, Santa Barbara and the University of California, Office of the President.”

Location

Steps to Use Equipment

  1. Contact BNL staff to get trained on the instrument.
  2. Apply to CNSI for electronic door access to the facility.
  3. BNL Staff will add you to the FACES reservation system.

BNL Recharge Rates

Files

File Barcode Spreadsheet
PDF icon NGS FAQs
PDF icon NGS Instrument Technical Data

Documents

PDF icon Access Instructions for Non-UCSB Users