Genomics Core


The Genomics Core provides UT faculty, staff, and students, as well as off-campus users, with access to state-of-the-art sequencing and library prep equipment and training. As a shared resource facility, it provides access to high-throughput sequencing on Illumina platforms and associated laboratory equipment as well as DNA sequence analysis support to the UT research community.

The Genomics Core is located in Room 407 of the Science and Engineering Research Facility. Contact core facility staff for questions about your project needs at [email protected].

Note that user rates are subject to change without notice or as material costs change, and that troubleshooting may necessitate additional costs.

High-throughput sequencing and rates

The Genomics Core provides high-throughput next-generation sequencing services to campus and off-campus researchers. Sequencing is performed using the Illumina NovaSeq, NextSeq, and iSeq instruments. We recommend advance consultation with Genomics Core staff. While we strive for successful sequencing every time, we cannot guarantee project success. In all cases, the user will be billed for cost and labor in accordance with our fee structure. All samples are assumed to be safe and no greater than BSL1 unless otherwise agreed upon in advance.

Project workflow

  1. DNA/RNA Extraction — Nucleic acid is extracted and purified
  2. Library Prep — Sample is prepared for sequencing by adding appropriate adapters
  3. Sequencing — Sequence of the sample is read and raw data created
  4. Analysis — Primary analysis, secondary analysis, interpretation

Services

DNA extraction

Some DNA extractions are suitable for automation, and some are better suited for manual extraction. Automated extractions are performed on a KingFisher Flex using Zymo Research kits and manual extractions are performed using Qiagen extraction kits. Contact core facility staff to discuss which method is best for your sample type.

Hourly rates listed as Internal / External (Academic) / External Non-Academic.

Manual extraction, up to 100 samples, each
Internal: $14 · External (Academic): $18 · External Non-Academic: $22

Manual extraction, more than 100 samples, each
Internal: $12 · External (Academic): $15 · External Non-Academic: $19

Automated extraction, 24–48 samples, each (24 sample minimum)
Internal: $10 · External (Academic): $12 · External Non-Academic: $16

Automated extraction, 49–96 samples, each
Internal: $8 · External (Academic): $10 · External Non-Academic: $13

Automated extraction, more than 96 samples, each
Internal: $6 · External (Academic): $8 · External (Commercial): $10

Genome and metagenome library preparation

Genome and metagenome libraries are prepared using Illumina’s DNA Prep kit (formerly Nextera DNA Flex Library Prep). The starting material needed is 50-250 ng of DNA in less than 15 uL volume, diluted in Tris-HCl, pH 8. The DNA should have an absorbance of 260/280 in the 1.8-2 range and 260-230 in the 2-2.2 range. Contact core facility staff if your template DNA does not meet these specifications. The costs below are for library construction of extracted quantified DNA. Next you will need to select the appropriate Illumina sequencing option.

Hourly rates listed as Internal / External (Academic) / External Non-Academic.

1–11 samples, each
Internal: $68 · External (Academic): $85 · External Non-Academic: $105

12–48 samples, each
Internal: $55 · External (Academic): $69 · External Non-Academic: $85

More than 48 samples, each
Internal: $44 · External (Academic): $55 · External Non-Academic: $68

Metabarcoding of Amplicon products

Amplicon libraries are prepared with Illumina’s two-step PCR amplicon protocol. Users can prepare their own PCR products or Core staff can fully prepare the amplicon libraries with common primers for 16S, ITS, and COI. We offer primer optimization and custom PCR setups when appropriate. Please contact Genomics Core staff prior to preparing your own library to confirm compatibility with Illumina sequencing platforms, as specific adapters are required.

The costs below are for library construction of extracted, quantified DNA. Most costs are for batches of samples prepared at once. We offer 16S amplicon sequencing at the individual sample scale. For full library prep, DNA should be diluted to 10 ng/ul, with 10 ul provided. Next you will need to select the appropriate Illumina sequencing option.

Hourly rates listed as Internal / External (Academic) / External Non-Academic.

Full Amplicon library prep, up to 24 samples
Internal: $1,050 · External (Academic): $1,325 · External Non-Academic: $1,625

Full Amplicon library prep, 25–48 samples
Internal: $1,300 · External (Academic): $1,625 · External Non-Academic: $2,000

Full Amplicon library prep, 49–96 samples
Internal: $1,750 · External (Academic): $2,200 · External Non-Academic: $2,700

Full Amplicon prep of single 16S sample
Internal: $45 · External (Academic): $57 · External Non-Academic: $70

Amplicon library prep of post-PCR product, up to 24 samples
Internal: $800 · External (Academic): $1,000 · External Non-Academic: $1,230

Amplicon library prep of post-PCR product, 25–48 samples
Internal: $1,000 · External (Academic): $1,250 · External Non-Academic: $1,550

Amplicon library prep of post-PCR product, 49–96 samples
Internal: $1,375 · External (Academic): $1,725 · External Non-Academic: $2,115

Primer optimization fee
Internal: $300 · External (Academic): $375 · External Non-Academic: $465

Individual PCR only, up to 24 samples
Internal: $175 · External (Academic): $225 · External Non-Academic: $275

Individual PCR only, 25–48 samples
Internal: $200 · External (Academic): $250 · External Non-Academic: $310

Individual PCR only, 49–96 samples
Internal: $288 · External (Academic): $360 · External Non-Academic: $445

RNA Seq

RNA libraries are prepared using Zymo Research’s Zymo-Seq RiboFree Total RNA Library Kit, which can include an rRNA depletion step. The minimum input amount of RNA is 100 ng in 6 uL volume, but the recommended input is 500 ng. RNA should have A260/A280 and A260/A230 ratios greater than 1.8 and be DNA-free. Please check that this kit is compatible with your needs. The costs below are for library construction of extracted, quantified, and quality-confirmed RNA. Next you will need to select the appropriate Illumina sequencing option.

Hourly rates listed as Internal / External (Academic) / External Non-Academic.

Up to 12 samples, each
Internal: $99 · External (Academic): $124 · External Non-Academic: $152

13–48 samples, each
Internal: $89 · External (Academic): $111 · External Non-Academic: $137

More than 48 samples, each
Internal: $78 · External (Academic): $98 · External Non-Academic: $120

Illumina iSeq sequencing

The Illumina iSeq is a small next-generation sequencer that can produce a maximum of 4 million read pairs (clusters). It is ideal for very small sequencing projects and test runs for larger sequencing projects. The costs below are for prepared libraries. Costs for library prep are in addition to the cost of the flow cell. Illumina is currently charging an additional tariff fee, which is directly recharged to users.

Rates listed as Internal UT User / External Academic / External Non-Academic. M = million reads, B = billion reads, SE = single-end, PE = paired-end.

300 cycle · 2×150 nt · ~4 M SE · ~8 M PE
Internal: $775 · External (Academic): $825 · External Non-Academic: $945

iSeq run only
Internal: $100 · External (Academic): $150 · External Non-Academic: $200

Illumina NextSeq sequencing

The Illumina NextSeq 1000 uses a patterned flow cell technology to sequence up to 400 million read pairs (clusters). It replaces the previous Illumina MiSeq, with similar capabilities at reduced costs and higher quality. It is ideal for small- to medium-sized sequencing projects. Lane sharing may be available for small projects. Contact core facility staff for information.

Custom read lengths are also available, generally requiring whole flow cell reads. The appropriate NextSeq flow cell for your project is determined by the depth of coverage needed as well as the desired read length. Contact core facility staff for advice on which flow cell is right for your project.

Illumina is currently charging an additional tariff fee, which is directly recharged to users.

Rates listed as Internal UT User / External Academic / External Non-Academic. M = million reads, B = billion reads, SE = single-end, PE = paired-end.

P1 100 · 2×50 nt · ~100 M SE · ~200 M PE
Internal: $1,120 · External (Academic): $1,270 · External Non-Academic: $1,420

P1 300 · 2×150 nt · ~100 M SE · ~200 M PE
Internal: $1,420 · External (Academic): $1,570 · External Non-Academic: $1,720

P1 600 · 2×300 nt · ~100 M SE · ~200 M PE
Internal: $1,975 · External (Academic): $2,125 · Non-Academic: $2,275

P2 100 · 2×50 nt · ~400 M SE · ~800 M PE
Internal: $1,520 · External (Academic): $1,670 · Non-Academic: $1,820

P2 200 · 2×100 nt · ~400 M SE · ~800 M PE
Internal: $2,545 · External (Academic): $2,695 · Non-Academic: $2,845

P2 300 · 2×150 nt · ~400 M SE · ~800 M PE
Internal: $3,265 · External (Academic): $3,415 · External Non-Academic: $3,565

P2 600 · 2×300 nt · ~400 M SE · ~800 M PE
Internal: $3,520 · External (Academic): $3,670 · External (Commercial): $3,820

Run costs only
Internal: $350 · External (Academic): $500 · External (Commercial): $650

Illumina NovaSeq sequencing

The NovaSeq 6000 is a large-scale sequencer from Illumina, generating up to 10 billion read pairs (clusters) using patterned flow cell technology, with scalable throughputs to accommodate most projects. Careful consideration of sample numbers and flow cell output is crucial for effective use of this platform. The high yields of the NovaSeq flow cells may present difficulties in efficiently filling flow cells for many researchers. As such, pooling options are available to reduce costs for users. Contact core facility staff for further information. Custom read lengths are also available, generally requiring whole flow cell reads.

The appropriate Illumina NovaSeq flow cell for your project is determined by the depth of coverage needed, as well as the desired read length. Contact core facility staff for advice on which flow cell is right for your project. The costs below are for a prepared library. Costs for library prep are in addition to the cost of the flow cell.

Illumina is currently charging an additional tariff fee, which is directly recharged to users.

For assistance calculating coverage necessary for your specific project, visit Illumina’s Coverage Calculator.

Rates listed as Internal UT User / External Academic / External Non-Academic. M = million reads, B = billion reads, SE = single-end, PE = paired-end.

SP 200 · 2×100 nt · ~650–800 M SE · ~1.3–1.6 B PE
Internal: $3,360 · External (Academic): $3,610 · External Non-Academic: $4,530

SP 300 · 2×150 nt · ~650–800 M SE · ~1.3–1.6 B PE
Internal: $3,620 · External (Academic): $3,870 · External Non-Academic: $4,850

SP 500 · 2×250 nt · ~650–800 M SE · ~1.3–1.6 B PE
Internal: $4,870 · External (Academic): $5,120 · External Non-Academic: $6,390

S1 200 · 2×100 nt · ~1.3–1.6 B SE · ~2.6–3.2 B PE
Internal: $5,545 · External (Academic): $5,795 · External Non-Academic: $7,225

S1 300 · 2×150 nt · ~1.3–1.6 B SE · ~2.6–3.2 B PE
Internal: $5,960 · External (Academic): $6,210 · External Non-Academic: $7,740

S2 200 · 2×100 nt · ~3.3–4.1 B SE · ~6.6–8.2 B PE
Internal: $9,865 · External (Academic): $10,115 · External Non-Academic: $12,555

S2 300 · 2×150 nt · ~3.3–4.1 B SE · ~6.6–8.2 B PE
Internal: $10,490 · External (Academic): $10,740 · External Non-Academic: $13,325

S4 200 · 2×100 nt · ~8–10 B SE · ~16–20 B PE
Internal: $14,145 · External (Academic): $14,395 · External Non-Academic: $17,830

S4 300 · 2×150 nt · ~8–10 B SE · ~16–20 B PE
Internal: $15,700 · External (Academic): $15,950 · External (Commercial): $19,750

NovaSeq run only
Internal: $500 · External (Academic): $750 · External (Commercial): $1,000

Nucleic Acid quantification and rates

  • TapeStation — The Agilent TapeStation quantifies and qualifies DNA and RNA. The appropriate screentape is determined by the expected product size and concentration. This instrument is available for assisted and unassisted use. Users accessing this instrument for unassisted use will need to either provide their own consumables or contact core staff about the availability of purchasing consumables directly from the lab.
  • Nanodrop — DNA and RNA can be quantified by core staff on the Nanodrop Eight Spectrophotometer. The fee structure is based on batch sizes of up to 48 or 49 to 96 samples provided at a time.
  • Qubit — DNA can be quantified by core staff on the Qubit Flex Fluorometer. The rate structure is based on a higher rate for the first eight samples to account for standards, then a reduced rate for each additional batch of eight samples.
  • QPCR — Quantitative PCR is available on the QuantStudio3 Real-Time system as an unassisted use service. Users are provided with a compatible 96 well plate and seal. Contact core staff to ensure that your project design and fluorescent dye selection are compatible with the instrument.

Quantification rates

Rates listed as Internal UT User / External Academic / External Non-Academic.

TapeStation, standard sensitivity, per sample
Internal: $5.50 · External (Academic): $7.00 · External Non-Academic: $8.50

TapeStation, high sensitivity, per sample
Internal: $6.50 · External (Academic): $8.00 · External Non-Academic: $10.00

TapeStation, unassisted use, per sample, no consumables
Internal: $1.00 · External (Academic): $2.00 · External Non-Academic: $3.00

Nanodrop, single sample
Internal: $1.00 · External (Academic): $1.25 · External Non-Academic: $1.75

Nanodrop, batch of 1–48 samples
Internal: $20.00 · External (Academic): $25.00 · External Non-Academic: $31.00

Nanodrop, batch of 49–96 samples
Internal: $25.00 · External (Academic): $32.00 · External Non-Academic: $39.00

Qubit, first batch of 1–8 samples
Internal: $16.00 · External (Academic): $20.00 · External Non-Academic: $25.00

Qubit, each additional batch of 1–8 samples
Internal: $8.00 · External (Academic): $10.00 · External Non-Academic: $13.00

QPCR unassisted use, PCR plate provided
Internal: $30.00 · External (Academic): $38.00 · External Non-Academic: $47.00

Additional DNA sequencing services

The Genomics Core houses additional equipment available for use:

  • Pippin Prep — The Pippin Prep performs automated gel extraction and is available for assisted and unassisted use. Users must provide their own cassettes.
  • Bioruptor — The Bioruptor uses ultrasound to fragment DNA and is available for both assisted and unassisted use.

Bench fee

Users may reserve clean room bench space to perform their own lab work. Nonfiltered tips and pipets will be provided. If any training or staff involvement is required, additional costs may be necessary at the staff labor rate. Contact core facility staff for more information.

Additional service rates

Rates listed as Internal UT User / External Academic / External Nonacademic.

Pippin Prep, unassisted
Internal: $15 · External (Academic): $20 · External (Commercial): $25

Pippin Prep, assisted
Internal: $45 · External (Academic): $69 · External (Commercial): $90

Bioruptor, unassisted
Internal: $15 · External (Academic): $20 · External (Commercial): $25

Bioruptor, assisted
Internal: $30 · External (Academic): $40 · External (Commercial): $50

Labor, Manager
Internal: $45 · External (Academic): $69 · External (Commercial): $90

Hourly bench fee, no staff involvement
Internal: $10 · External (Academic): $15 · External (Commercial): $20

Unassisted use implies that the user has been previously trained on the instrument and is capable of performing all needed tasks without assistance from core facility personnel. Assisted use implies that the user has not received instrument training and will require assistance from core facility personnel for sample analysis.

Personnel

Veronica Brown


Lab Manager

865-974-8075

Stephanie Kivlin


Scientific Director

865-974-2371

Andrea Trent


Research Technician

865-974-8031

Shelly Sambrooks


Research Technician

865-974-8031

Additional resources

Existing users can place orders via Stratocore. New users should contact Genomics Core staff.

For information on transferring large sequencing data files, see the High Performance and Scientific Computing Genomics and Sequencing Support page or email [email protected].