Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SEFS Shared Genetics Lab?

​This lab provides space and equipment for graduate and undergraduate students to conduct molecular research in house rather than having to outsource this work. The lab was designed with separate pre- and post-PCR rooms to reduce contamination risk and facilitate research involving low-copy DNA, such as environmental DNA and non-invasive genetics. The lab has a ddPCR machine, which is cutting-edge equipment for quantifying low-copy DNA. The lab is also equipped for traditional genetic analyses as well as next-generation genomic analyses through the PCR stage. Currently, the lab does not have sequencers, so samples are sent out for sequencing after PCR.

Who runs the lab?

​Dr. Laura Prugh directs the lab. Ellie Reese is the lab manager who oversees daily operations and provides training and support for shared lab users.

Where is the SEFS Shared Genetics Lab?

This lab is located in the 170 suite of Bloedel Hall, on the SEFS campus at the University of Washington.​

What equipment is available for shared use?

​Here is a list of our equipment, organized by category:

Sample processing

• Tube-format and plate-format centrifuges
• Freezone freeze-dryer/lyophilizer
• Tissue lyser
• Shaker
• Heat blocks
• Fume hood
• Vortexers
• PCR hood workstation

Amplification and analysis

• QX200 Digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) generator, reader, plate sealers, and laptop + software
• CFX96 Real-time PCR optical reaction thermal cycler
• Four C1000 96-well PCR thermal cyclers
• T100 Deep-well PCR thermal cycler
• Gel electrophoresis running rigs
• Gel EZ Doc Gel electrophoresis imager with imaging plates and laptop with analysis software
• Qubit fluorometer
• NanoDrop spectrophotometer
• GeneMapper 6 license
• CLC Workbench license 

Other

• Bench top autoclave
• Single-channel pipettes (Rainin LTS and Biorad UPS models)
• Multichannel pipettes (8-well, Rainin LTS model)
• Single-channel repeater pipettes
• -80°C freezer
• -20°C freezers
• 5°C refrigerator
• Tube racks
• pH meter
• Heated magnetic stir block
• 96-well plate and tube format magnets (for NGS bead-cleaning steps)
• Glass flasks and graduated cylinders​

What are your rates for consumables?

​Here is a list of our current approved rates for consumables. (Internal rates are for UW users. External rates are for non-UW users. The rates are priced per UW’s cost center guidelines.)

Consumable	Unit	Internal rate per unit	External rate per unit
​0-20 µL filtered pipette tips	​1 box of 96 tips	​$10.00	$11.55
​20-200 µL filtered pipette tips	​1 box of 96 tips	​$10.00	$11.55
​100-1000 µL filtered pipette tips	​1 box of 96 tips	$11.00	$12.71
​96-well skirted PCR plate + seal (microseal B)	​1 plate + 1 seal	$5.00	$5.78
​1.5 ml or 2 ml microcentrifuge tubes	​1 tube	$0.21	$0.24
​Qubit tubes	​1 tube	$0.20	$0.23
​Qubit reagents	1 ml	$0.66	$0.76

ddPCR usage

Lab supplies used	Internal Rate	External rate
Equipment and reader oil only	$20 per 8 wells	$23.12 per 8 wells
All consumables (PCR plates and foil seals available separately)	$40 per 8 wells	$46.24 per 8 wells

Are there other consumables available for use?

Yes. Although we don’t have associated rates for them, the following consumables are also supplied by the lab and can be purchased via invoicing:

• 10 ml and 50 ml tubes
• Sample cryoboxes
• Various chemicals, buffers, and reagents (including EDTA, proteinase K, and PCR master mix)
• Gloves and Kimtech wipes 

​Why does the lab charge for consumables? Wouldn’t it be cheaper for me to buy them myself?

​We buy common consumables at bulk pricing and have set our rates to those same bulk prices. In doing so, we hope to help lab users benefit from bulk pricing without paying for excess supplies. Lab users who intend on using a large amount of any particular consumable are encouraged to purchase their own supply directly. 

​Can I purchase all supplies for my project through the SEFS Shared Genetics Lab?

​Because every genetics project is different, you will likely need to purchase some of your own supplies. If you have questions about how to order supplies, or which supplies you will need, you can contact the lab manager.

​What is your pricing for ddPCR machine usage?

​There are two different rates for using the ddPCR equipment. The first rate assumes the user will buy all consumables (except for reader oil) independently. The second includes the costs of purchasing all consumables through the SEFS Shared Genetics Lab. Lab users who wish to buy a mix of lab-supplied and externally-purchased consumables can be charged an equivalent ratio of the two rates.

Lab consumables used	Internal Rate	External rate
Equipment and reader oil only	$20 per 8 wells	$23.12 per 8 wells
All consumables (PCR plates and foil seals available separately)	$40 per 8 wells	$46.24 per 8 wells

Do I have to pay to use the lab?

Each new lab user will need to be trained in the lab’s safety procedures, standard operating procedures, and equipment protocol. Users will be charged a one-time training fee, with costs depending on experience level and expected length of lab usage (~$300-$2000). This fee helps pay for the manager's time spent training, assisting, advising, and coordinating with students. 
​
In addition, lab users will be charged a quarterly fee of $280. This fee helps cover operational costs such as equipment maintenance and insurance.

What if I don't have the funds for training or fees?

​In the future, SEFS may have a process for students to apply for research support funds. 

What if I only use the lab a few times per quarter? Do I have to pay a fee?

​This is determined on a case-by-case basis and should be discussed with the lab manager and PI. 

Can I employ undergraduate volunteers/workers to carry out my work in the shared lab on my behalf? 

​Yes. However, the lab manager is required to give all personnel a safety training, which there will be a fee for. 

Can I pay for contracted work?

​Yes! You can contact the lab manager with specific details about your project for a quote. 

How do I start using the SEFS Shared Genetics Lab?

Lab users should email the lab manager ([email protected]) with information about their project and inquiries about scheduling. New users are encouraged to contact the lab manager several weeks before they plan to carry out lab work.