Sample Submission
Submission
To submit samples (DNA, RNA, single cells etc.) for library preparation and / or custom libraries for sequencing, please go through the instructions below and then contact us by e-mail bsf@cemm.oeaw.ac.at to coordinate the sample submission. We are happy to provide advice on sample processing and detailed protocols for sample preparation, in order to maximize sequencing data quality.
Office Hours for Sample Submission and Questions
You are welcome to submit your samples during our office hours always on Wednesdays between 3pm and 5pm and Fridays between 1pm and 3pm.
Documents Required for each Submission
- Sample annotation sheet (download template): The filled-in sheet provides details on the submitted samples defining the requested
experiments and initial bioinformatic analysis
- Sequencing authorization form (download template): The signed form provides formal authorization for the Biomedical Sequencing Facility
to perform the requested services.
Please send these documents by e-mail to bsf@cemm.oeaw.ac.at, ideally prior to delivering the samples (or at least shortly after). Samples may be processed only after the complete documents have been received.
Sample Labeling
Importantly, samples must be clearly labelled with permanent marker pen or adhesive labels that will withstand freezing. Sample names should be simple, readable, and comprise up to 8 alpha-numeric characters. Avoid using very basic, non-unique names such as A, B, C etc. or 1, 2, 3 etc., better use a project-specific and/or lab-specific prefix followed by a running number.
The sample annotation sheet should link the sample labels written on tubes to more meaningful sample names that can be used in the bioinformatics analysis. Please remember that sample names may be used for file names, gene lists, and data analysis plots, hence a short, informative sample name in the sample annotation sheet is highly recommended.
Samples are accepted in 1.5 ml or 2 ml DNase-free and RNase-free microcentrifuge tubes. If you plan to submit your samples in a 96-well format, please contact us and request for a 96-well sample submission kit.
Sample Requirements
The sample requirements vary between protocols. Please contact us at bsf@cemm.oeaw.ac.at to obtain detailed instructions for the protocol of interest.
Sample Delivery
Arrange the samples in the same order as in the sample annotation sheet in a cryo storage box (or similar). Before sample submission, please always contact us at bsf@cemm.at , send us the sample submission documents (sample annotation sheet and sequencing authorization form) and select from one of the following options for handing in your samples:
Option 1: In-person delivery
Please arrange an appointment by e-mail for in-person delivery. DNA or RNA samples for library preparation must be delivered on dry ice to minimize degradation. User-provided sequencing libraries should also be delivered on ice. For single-cell analysis, the sample delivery depends on details of the experiment and should be coordinated with us up-front.
Option 2: Delivery via express mail or courier
Please contact us in advance when you are planning to send the samples or libraries by express mail or courier and please use the fastest service available. Samples and libraries should always be sent on dry ice to minimize degradation. Make sure you supply sufficient dry ice for the whole transport including unexpected delays. Insulate and seal the package carefully to minimize thawing. Too small packages within insufficient dry ice for a delayed journey and fast thawing due to insufficiently sealed packages are two common reasons for samples arriving without any dry ice left, which can render valuable samples useless.
We recommend sending the parcel at the beginning of the week and avoiding weeks with public holidays, in order to minimize the risk for delays. Furthermore, to avoid delays in customs, please describe the contents accurately, e.g. “Purified DNA dissolved in 10 mM Tris-Cl, for research purpose only”. The commercial invoice should state a value of 0 (or lowest amount possible).
Please send your samples to the following address:
Biomedical Sequencing Facility (BSF)
CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine
Lazarettgasse 14, AKH BT 25.3
1090 Vienna
AUSTRIA