(Microbiology: Capability/Capacity Development, Whole Genome Sequencing) The New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) laboratory?s aim, in participating in the microbiology capability/capacity development project, is to develop next generation sequencing (NGS) capability of food borne pathogens and related veterinary clinical isolates. The NJDA microbiology program has resources including facility, equipment, and personnel to isolate pathogenic microorganisms from samples. The NJDA microbiology program lacks equipment required to accomplish the whole genome sequencing. To this end, the NJDA would like to purchase an Illumina iSEQ 100 next generation sequencer, reagents, consumables, and software, and obtain training in whole genome sequencing (WGS). Microbial sequencing on the iSEQ 100 is part of an integrated workflow system that consists of library preparation with the Nextera DNA Flex Library preparation kit, Illumina sequencing, and push button data analysis in Base Space Sequence hub. Laboratory personnel will attend online and onsite WGS and bioinformatics trainings and pass an initial competency assessment before proceeding to do the WGS. Personnel will also participate in GenomeTrakr proficiency tests and attend the annual GenomeTrakr and face-to-face meeting. The acquisition of next generation sequencer along with all supplies, consumables, and personnel will greatly enhance the NJDA laboratory?s capability and the national capacity.
