Microbiology Track 5 ? Microbiology Capability / Capacity Development Project Summary/Abstract: Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) Enteric Lab is the primary laboratory performing whole genome sequencing for foodborne illness investigations for the State of Indiana. Current investigations are mainly focused on sequencing clinical specimens, however, year 1 of the grant will be used to bring on a MiniSeq for sequencing food isolates. Trainings will prepare the Enteric Lab staff to use this new instrument and submit isolates to GenomeTrakr. Microbiologists will participate in proficiency tests and maintain competencies to sequence and analyze samples based on approved methodology. We also plan to participate in any conference calls, GenomeTrakr face to face meetings, WGS trainings, and other activities that are required during the grant period. Grant years 2-5 will be spent building up our testing capability and capacity based on the FDA?s suggested development projects specified each grant year. ISDH Labs has a wide range of instrumentation and specialized workspaces that will allow for the microbiologists to tackle a development project. Other lab areas can also act as subject matter experts depending on the instrument, analyte, or techniques involved in the projects.
