Getting started
NGS Workflow Overview: From Sample to Sequencing Data
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a powerful and rapidly advancing technology that enables high-throughput analysis of nucleic acids. It plays a key role across a wide range of research fields and provides in-depth insights across different OMICS levels—from genomic variation and transcriptomics to epigenetics and proteomics.
A typical NGS project comprises four main steps:
- Nucleic acid extraction and quality control (QC)
- Library preparation
- Sequencing
- Data processing and technical QC
Below, you'll find all the information needed to start your NGS project with us. Whether you're new to NGS or looking to expand your research, our experienced team is here to support you at every stage—ensuring high-quality, reliable results.
How to access the NGS Core Facility services:
Step 1
First contact & project inquiry
Please send an e-mail with a brief description of your planned sequencing project, including key details such as the number of samples, the sample source, and the type of protocol you are interested in.
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, feel free to just describe your research question or ask us directly—we’re happy to help you find the best approach.
Step 2
Project sheet
Once you've decided on a protocol, we will provide you with the corresponding project sheet to fill out. Please complete all mandatory fields marked in yellow, enter your sample information, and confirm that you have read an acknowledged the "General Information" by entering your name in the respective field. Submit your completed project sheet via email.
Step 3
Project ID & Sample submission
After your completed project sheet has been reviewed, you will receive a Project ID along with approval to submit your samples. Samples can be delivered to the NGS Core Lab Monday to Thursday between 1–2 pm. Please ensure your samples comply with the preparation guidelines specified in the "General Information" tab of the project sheet, and don’t forget to bring your Project ID when submitting.
Step 4
Sample QC, Processing & Data
Following sequencing, all data undergoes automated primary processing and technical quality control (QC) to verify run quality and data integrity. We deliver standardized output formats (e.g. FASTQ, .parquet) through secure file transfer and offer optional support for downstream analysis. Our workflows are based on established best practices and continuously refined to ensure robust, high-quality results.
Address
How to find us
e.g. Arrival by bus and train or map
From Bonn main station you can take the bus line 600 (direction Ippendorf Altenheim) and 601 (direction Venusberg) to the bus stop “Uniklinikum Nord, Uniklinikum Hauptpforte or Uniklinikum Süd”. Line 630 runs in the Bonn city area without stopping at the main station. Please use the night bus (N5) between midnight and 5:30 a.m.
The Core Facilities thank the German Research Foundation for continuous support.
