As part of the new initiative to strengthen the biotechnology and bioinformatics capacity of AHRI, Illumina NextSeq 500 Sequencer has been purchased and installed at AHRI. The installation was made by engineers from Illumina, Mr Ahmed Khairy.
Following the installation, test run and training was given for three days starting from November 6 – 8, 2017 for 7 AHRI staff members by Faraz Shaheed. The training includes: Basic concepts on NGS technology, sequencing test run using φX library on NextSeq 500, create sample information, data transfer protocols, routine machine washing steps, issue reporting for remote support, general safety and data quality checks.
The instrument is now ready for function and is expected to give service (whole genome, exome, RNA sequencing) as well as bioinformatics support not only to AHRI but also to all interested researchers/institutions in the country based on specific agreement.
Currently, the unit is in the process of acquiring accessories and reagents to avoid interruption in function.
If you need additional information please contact Dr Yonas Kassahun ( +251-929-039-963; yonaskass@gmail.com) who is in charge of the bioinformatics and sequencing facility.