Microbial DNA Sequencing

Introducing our microbial sequencing service

Microbial sequencing is a high-resolution method used to identify, characterise and analyse bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms at the genetic level. At QIB Extra, we provide advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) services for microbial genome sequencing, microbial identification and metagenomic analysis. Projects are delivered under our ISO 9001 Certification. We provide DNA extraction, library preparation, metagenomic and amplicon sequencing, whole-genome sequencing, as well as both short- and long-read sequencing services. We are also supported by the QIB core bioinformatics team.

Sequencing applications supported

• Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) — Short-Read and Long-Read
• Metagenomic Sequencing — Short-Read and Long-Read
• 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing — Microbial community profiling
• Other targeted Amplicon Sequencing (18S, ITS)
• FASTQ / BAM / VCF output
• ​SNP analysis/genome assembly/annotation pipelines

Benefits of Microbial Sequencing

• Comprehensive Microbiome Analysis: Achieve a complete understanding of microbiome composition, including unculturable and novel microbial species.
• Improved Pathogen Detection: Enhance sensitivity for detecting foodborne and emerging pathogens, including non-culturable organisms.
• Species-Level Identification: Accurately identify microbes at the species level, aiding in disease association studies and microbial research.
• Understanding Disease Mechanisms: Gain insights into microbiome-host interactions in conditions such as type 2 diabetes and gastrointestinal cancers.
• Personalised Medicine: Support the development of tailored healthcare interventions through individualised microbiome profiling.
• Biomarker Identification: Discover potential biomarkers for disease detection and monitoring through advanced metagenomic analysis.
• ​Bespoke Design: Services are tailored to your specific research needs, with workflows and outputs designed to deliver on your objectives.

Background

QIB Extra’s DNA sequencing service is built upon the Quadram Institute’s extensive expertise in genomics and microbiome research. As the commercial arm of Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB), QIB Extra leverages decades of scientific innovation and state-of-the-art infrastructure to deliver high-quality sequencing solutions.

Our team, led by Dave Baker, Head of Sequencing at the Quadram Institute, has been instrumental in developing cost-effective, high-throughput sequencing methods. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, our sequencing team processed over 87,000 samples, contributing significantly to the UK's genomic surveillance efforts .

QIB Extra offers comprehensive sequencing services, including short-read sequencing using high-throughput Illumina platforms and long-read sequencing employing Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT). This combination allows us to deliver complete genomic analyses, from whole-genome sequencing and gene panel testing to de novo assembly and structural variant detection.

Our facilities are equipped with advanced technologies and are supported by a robust bioinformatics pipeline for data processing, alignment, and analysis. This ensures accurate and insightful results for research, clinical, environmental, and industrial applications. By integrating cutting-edge sequencing technologies with unparalleled expertise, QIB Extra and the Quadram Institute continue to drive innovation in genomics, supporting clients in achieving their scientific goals.

Our Sequencing Services

> Sample Preparation +

Our experienced laboratory technicians apply advanced protocols to extract and purify high-quality genomic DNA from a wide variety of sample types, including environmental, food, and clinical specimens. Preservation of microbial community structure and minimisation of contamination are prioritised to ensure the highest data integrity.
 

> Library Preparation +

We construct robust genomic libraries through optimised fragmentation, precise size selection, and efficient adapter ligation. This ensures comprehensive coverage with minimal bias, enabling accurate and reproducible sequencing across all project types.
 

> Illumina Short-Read Sequencing +

We utilise high-throughput Illumina platforms to generate short DNA fragments (400–600 bp) and paired-end 150 bp reads. Our established methods minimise GC bias and support sequencing for amplicons, plasmids, bacterial isolates, yeast, phages, and complex microbial communities. We also offer a Library Preparation and Pooling Service Only for external sequencing needs.
 

> Oxford Nanopore Long-Read Sequencing +

Using Oxford Nanopore Technologies, we generate longer DNA reads ideal for detecting structural variants, phasing complex regions, and performing de novo genome assemblies.
 

> Hybrid Sequencing +

We provide combined short- and long-read sequencing to deliver complete, high-quality small genome assemblies, maximising the strengths of both technologies for enhanced genomic resolution.
 

Contact Us

To find out more about our DNA sequencing services or to discuss your project requirements, please contact us today. Our team will work with you to design a solution that meets your scientific objectives with precision, reliability, and expert support.