Jackson, Ryan; Miller, Charles (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Jackson, Ryan (College of Science, Chemistry and Biochemistry Department); Miller, Charles (College of Engineering, Biological Engineering Department)
The concept of real time species identification in situ is a long time researchers dream. This dream now lies within reach due to the recent innovation of nanopore sequencing technology. These machines, with their small size and powerful computing capability, have made it possible to preform 16s and whole genome sequencing, with a setup that can fit in a backpack. Not only will this increase convenience of sampling for researchers, but a recent study in Wales has shown that sampling on site may help to identify closely related organisms at a greater level of accuracy (Parker, 2017). If sampling in the field really can give more accurate results, field sequencing may help to identify an extraordinarily large amount of biodiversity and genetic pathways.
One obstacle that stands in the way of this technology becoming more accessible across the globe is the lack of scientific literature on how to build the infrastructure necessary to sample on site. This study aims to construct a complete, self-contained kit with which you could field sequence. I have, currently at my disposal, a portable thermocycler, a nanopore sequencer, and computer designed with a workflow to do real time sequencing analysis. Using this technology already available, we aim to round out the kit with the necessary reagents, and structure to house the equipment. We will provide in depth analysis of the equipment, reagents, and all other materials provided to sequence a sample in any given location.