Molecular Extraction Pipeline

Who we are

The Molecular Extraction Pipeline (MEP), is part of UNSW Biospecimen Services. MEP provides high‑quality, reproducible DNA and RNA extraction services using manual extraction workflows and automated magnetic‑bead platforms (KingFisher systems). Automated extraction reduces hands‑on time, minimises batch‑to‑batch variation, and supports both small and large‑scale projects.

We are located at the Lowy Cancer Centre and in the Integrated Acute Services Building (IASB) that is situated alongside Randwick's new Prince of Wales Hospital.

Our workflows are optimised for consistency, scalability, and compatibility with downstream applications including qPCR, ddPCR, short‑read next-generation sequencing (NGS), and long‑read sequencing technologies.

Designed for

Research laboratories (UNSW & external)
Sequencing facilities
Clinical research groups
Biotech companies
Long-read sequencing projects
Grant-funded cohort studies

Our services

Automated extraction

Our laboratory delivers high-throughput, fully automated nucleic acid extraction using Thermo Scientific KingFisher™ Apex and Duo Prime systems.

We provide scalable, contamination controlled workflows validated across diverse sample types, producing high-yield, high-purity RNA and DNA suitable for qPCR, NGS, sequencing, and diagnostics with consistent, reproducible results.

Manual extraction

For projects under 50 samples, we provide carefully controlled manual extractions using premium commercial kits. Workflows include silica column and magnetic bead–based methods, selected per sample type and application. This approach enables customization, careful handling, and high-quality RNA and DNA for demanding downstream analyses.

Quality control, data analysis & reporting

Every extraction includes comprehensive quality control and professional reporting to ensure transparency and reliability. We provide validated concentration measurements, spectrophotometric purity assessment (A260/280, A260/230), and detailed sample-level QC reports. Secure electronic data delivery supports confident decision-making for qPCR, NGS, sequencing, library preparation, and molecular diagnostics.

Advanced quality control & workflow optimisation

We offer optional advanced services including pilot method comparison for kit validation, re-extraction or clean-up to improve yield and purity, RNA and DNA integrity analysis (RIN/DIN), and professional sample sortation and labelling. These services ensure optimised workflows, application-ready nucleic acids, and reliable, decision-grade data.

Research concierge services

We provide more than extraction services. Acting as a molecular research concierge, we support researchers throughout the project lifecycle, from experimental design and sample processing through to downstream analytical workflows.

Connected research infrastructure

We are able to coordinate access to specialist expertise and research infrastructure across UNSW from our laboratory, simplifying project delivery and helping researchers achieve high-quality, reproducible outcomes.

Instruments

The Thermo Scientific KingFisher™ Apex is a high-throughput automated magnetic particle processor engineered for large-scale nucleic acid extraction. It delivers exceptional reproducibility and minimizes human intervention, significantly reducing variability and cross-contamination risk. Its advanced automation capabilities allow standardized processing across large batches, ensuring consistent yield and purity. This platform is particularly valuable for projects requiring scalability, efficiency, and strict quality compliance.
The KingFisher™ Duo Prime offers flexible, lower-throughput automation without compromising extraction performance. It is ideal for smaller studies, pilot runs, method optimization, and specialized sample types. By combining automation with adaptability, the Duo Prime ensures consistent magnetic bead–based purification while maintaining rapid turnaround times and high-quality nucleic acid recovery.
TapeStation system provides automated electrophoretic analysis for nucleic acid quality assessment. It enables accurate determination of RNA Integrity Number (RIN) and DNA Integrity Number (DIN), offering critical insight into sample fragmentation and suitability for downstream applications such as next-generation sequencing and transcriptomic analysis. By integrating integrity assessment into our workflow, we help ensure that only high-quality nucleic acids proceed to advanced molecular applications.
A microvolume spectrophotometer designed for rapid and precise nucleic acid quantification and purity assessment. It measures concentration and calculates A260/280 and A260/230 ratios to evaluate potential protein, salt, or reagent contamination. This immediate, reliable quantification step allows us to validate extraction efficiency and confirm that samples meet purity thresholds required for sensitive molecular techniques.

Work with us

We work with academics, clinicians, and external partners to provide high-quality DNA and RNA extraction services. Review the steps below to understand how to access our facilities and how we can help you link to further downstream processing.

Complete a quote request form or contact the MEP team directly.

We will review your project requirements, sample types, and downstream applications to recommend the most suitable extraction workflow.

MEP Quote Request Form
Where required, we arrange a consultation to discuss project objectives and technical requirements. A tailored quotation and project plan are then provided for approval.
Once approved, we coordinate project preparation, including procurement of any required consumables and optimisation of the extraction workflow for your specific research needs.
Samples are received, logged into our tracking system, and assigned project records to ensure full traceability throughout the extraction process.
Where necessary, complementary pilot studies are performed to ensure quality requirements are met. Samples are then processed using validated workflows and subjected to comprehensive quality control assessment.
Researchers receive audit-ready QC reports, extracted sample summaries, and project documentation. Through our concierge service, we can also coordinate seamless transfer to downstream partners, including the Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics and Biological Mass Spectrometry Facility.

Get a quote

Indicative pricing for our nucleic acid extraction services varies depending on factors such as sample type, sample complexity, and the total number of samples. As these variables can significantly influence the workflow and reagents required, we are unable to provide a general or approximate price without first reviewing the project details.

Complete our Quote Request Form with details about your samples and requirements, and our team will review your needs and prepare a tailored, cost-effective quote.

MEP Quote Request Form

Downstream collaboration

Ramacciotti Center for Genomic

We work closely with the Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics to provide researchers with a seamless transition from high-quality nucleic acid extraction to downstream genomic analysis.

By ensuring extracted RNA and DNA meet the quality requirements for sequencing, transcriptomics, genomics, and other next-generation sequencing applications, our service helps researchers maximise the value of their samples while facilitating access to world-class genomics expertise and technologies.

Ramaciotti

Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility (BMSF)

Through our collaboration BMSF, researchers can extend their investigations beyond nucleic acid analysis to advanced protein, peptide, and metabolite characterisation.

This partnership enables integrated molecular research workflows that connect sample extraction and preparation with sophisticated mass spectrometry instrumentation and analyses.

BMSF

Grainne Moran Research Laboratories, IASB

Our team utilises the Grainne Moran Research Laboratories at the Prince of Wales Hospital to support clinical and translational research activities.

These facilities provide access to purpose-designed laboratory environments, specialised infrastructure, and resources to process and manage clinical research samples in accordance with established quality and operational standards.

IASB