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 Acute Services Building.

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 Services

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 Services

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 QC & Workflow Optimization Services

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 labeling. These services ensure optimized workflows, application-ready nucleic acids, and reliable, decision-grade data.

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.

Fees

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

How to access

Send us an enquiry
For general enquiries or access to our services please email us at BiospecimenServices@unsw.edu.au
Team Meeting
Once we have received your enquiry, you will be contacted by a member of the MEP team to discuss the details of your research and how we can develop a customised protocol to best meet your research goals.

We work closely with the Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics. Based at UNSW Kensington, we are able to offer an end to end solution linking our Molecular Extraction Pipeline services to Ramaciotti's Genomics services.

Please contact us for more information.

Collaboration

Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics

Streamline your research from sample prep to genomic analysis with our integrated extraction service.

We prepare your samples, ready for seamless progression to the Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics (Ramaciotti) world-class sequencing and analysis platforms. As the largest genomics facility at any Australian university, the Ramaciotti combines cutting-edge sequencing, expression analysis, and high-throughput technologies with internationally recognised expertise. Accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and recognised as infrastructure of national significance, it stands at the forefront of genomic research in Australia.

Together, we provide a streamlined, end-to-end solution designed to save you time, reduce complexity, and maximise the value of your research outcomes.

Ramaciotti

Integrated Acute Services Building Labs

Located alongside Randwick’s Prince of Wales Hospital Acute Services Building, UNSW Sydney’s Integrated Acute Services Building (IASB) is a cutting-edge hub connecting research, clinical innovation, and teaching. Designed to enable real-time collaboration between clinicians and researchers, the IASB creates a seamless link between UNSW and the Randwick Health Campus.

Our Biospecimen Services team provides managed PC2 facilities for the collection, processing, and short-term cryo-storage of patient samples, including blood, tissue, and saliva.

Through our Molecular Extraction Pipeline (MEP), we deliver high-quality, reproducible DNA and RNA extraction services, supporting a streamlined, end-to-end pathway from sample collection to downstream analysis.

IASB

Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility

Our Molecular Extraction Pipeline (MEP) delivers high-quality, reproducible protein extraction, that integrates seamlessly with downstream Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility (BMSF) workflows.

By ensuring consistent, high-purity sample preparation, the MEP enables reliable proteomic, metabolomic, and biomarker analyses, supporting deeper insight into biological systems.

Together, these capabilities provide a streamlined, end-to-end solution from MEP’s expertise in molecular and protein extraction through to BMSF's specialised proteomics capabilities. We are able to support a broad range of research projects, from pilot studies to large-scale investigations, helping researchers generate reliable, high-quality proteomic data.

BMSF