Molecular lab services

The Darwin Centre labs. © Sarah Walkington
We offer support for molecular diagnostics and characterisation of a wide variety of sample types and sources.
Leveraging our extensive experience, we routinely and successfully extract and sequence DNA or RNA from the most difficult of samples.
We offer a wide range of molecular services, from training and public engagement through to rapid commercial diagnostics, both clinical and environmental.
Our applications include:
- Birdstrike: Comprehensive forensic identification (molecular and morphological) of bird remains following collisions with aeroplanes or windfarms.
- Wildlife protection: Identification of endangered and protected species, both wild fauna and flora.
- Species confirmation: Accurate identification of species, fauna or flora. For example, for auction houses, specialist animal or plant breeders.
- Food contamination analysis: Identifying unknown, unwanted or unexpected ingredients.
- Food quality and safety: Confirm food products are as stated.
- Environmental monitoring: For pests or invasive species.
- Environmental habitat quality assessments: By identifying key indicator species, we can help characterise habitat health.
- Bespoke identification and characterisation: For unknown fauna or flora
Contact us
Have a question? Please get in touch.
Bespoke sample to data support
- Sample preparation from any tissue type or environmental sample
- DNA and RNA sequencing- Sanger, Next-Generation (Illumina and Element AVITI) and 3rd Generation (Nanopore)
- Bioinformatics
Lab support
We offer training to all museum staff and their official visitors. We can support and assist all lab users with everything from orientation and use of lab equipment to experimental design and trouble-shooting.
Sequencing equipment
ONT PromethION 2 Solo (PS2) and GridION
For long-read, direct RNA and High-Throughput Sequencing.
ONT MinION and Flongle
For long-read, direct RNA and High-Throughput Sequencing in the field.
Applied Biosystems 3730XL
For Sanger sequencing, microsatellites or SNP analysis.
Illumina MiSeq
For High-Throughput Sequencing of small genomes or amplicons
Element AVITI24
For High-Throughput Sequencing of small genomes or amplicons.




