The Zebrafish Genomics Facility (ZGF) offers several services. We can offer our technical expertise to support the zebrafish community at UCL with all aspects of genomics research from experimental design through to data analysis. In addition to providing bespoke genomics services and advice we also manage outreach activities for ZebrafishUCL, introducing the next generation of scientists to a thriving research environment. We are the hub for local safety inductions, risk assesments and training. We also coordinate purchasing for ZebrafishUCL and maintain communal equipment (listed below). Please read more about the services ZGF offers below.

ZGF Services

  • Next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation and sequencing using the Illumina NextSeq 550 and MiSeq. MiSeq analysis is cost effective with short run times and long reads with high data quality.

  • We provide help and support to analyse your sequencing data. With our experienced team we can help you with every stage of your research from experimental design to data analysis.

  • Our Crispr design and targetted Knock Out platform uses innovative headloop PCR. This can be used to quantify the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 RNPs, and to identify and sequence stably inherited alleles in F1 embryos.

  • We offer expert support for your whole transcriptome analysis. From experimental design to tissue collection, library creation through to data analysis.

  • We offer expert technical support for your single cell analysis. We use a BD Rhapsody™ Scanner single cell partitioning system that collects the cDNA libraries using magnetic bead tachnology. DNA sequencing libraries are then sent off for sequencing. Support for bioinformatical analysis of sequencing results is also available.

  • Profile chromatin accessibility at the single cell level.

  • We use the Crispr-Cas9 system to create targetted knock in transgenic lines. We can support you to design your guides and advise on suitable fluorescent tags to fit your research question.

ZFG Available Equipment

  • Microinjectors and needle puller

  • A wide variety of dissecting and fluorescent microscopes with associated cameras.

  • PCR machines and gel rigs and imager.

  • VAST bioimager

  • Incubators with a variety of temperatures and with specific light cycles for behaviour experiments.

  • cryostat

  • microtome for plastic sections

  • RO water purifier

  • -80 freezers


Our ZGF Facility Manager is Dr Gareth Powell. His decades of research experience at the highest level, with a particular focus on proteomics and genomics mean he is an invaluable resource for the ZebrafishUCL community. Please contact Gareth (g.powell@ucl.ac.uk) for more information about any of our genomics services or for bespoke help with your experimental design and data analysis.