The Centre for Biodiversity Genomics (CBG) is the global leader in the field of DNA barcoding, boasting one of Canada’s largest genomics platforms and world-class expertise in biodiversity science, DNA sequencing, and informatics. Its main operations are housed in two recently constructed buildings and one historic building on the University of Guelph campus – the Biodiversity Building, the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics, and the Zoology Annex 2 building. It houses several research laboratories and three operational units responsible for its core operations: the Canadian Centre for DNA Barcoding, the Bio-Inventory and Collections unit, and the Barcode of Life Data Systems.
Canadian Centre for DNA Barcoding (CCDB)
The CCDB boasts a state-of-the art high-hroughput laboratory facility with the capacity to generate up to 1 million DNA barcode sequences each year. In addition, the CCDB Research and Development Laboratory is leading the development of protocols for processing problematic specimens and improving operating procedures to support a cost-effective DNA barcoding pipeline.
Collections
The home of over three million animal specimens, the Collections unit develops high-throughput methods for specimen processing and data management. Its animal and plant collections are completely digitized and the majority of specimens are associated with a DNA barcode and photograph.
Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD)
BOLD is a publicly accessible DNA barcode data repository and workbench, supporting biodiversity research through the availability of a wide range of analytical tools and the incorporation of a framework for interim species classification, called the Barcode Index Number System.
BIO Herbarium
Within this unit, the BIO Herbarium houses approximately 100,000 herbarium specimens that are collected from around the world and are pressed, mounted, and labelled with taxonomy and collection information, providing a valuable genetic and ecological resource.
Research Training Laboratory
The majority of the training is conducted in laboratory spaces dedicated to the program. The Zoology Annex 2 building has been fitted for training purposes. The facility houses dedicated areas for specimen preparation, imaging, tissue sampling; and a separate area configured for molecular analyses, including tissue lysis, DNA extraction, PCR, and cycle-sequencing. It also has a group working area with individual workstations that is used for informatics, presentations, and meetings. Training program participants are provided with desk space to facilitate individual work. Work areas are equipped with broadband internet connection. Trainees are asked to bring their personal laptop computers for use during the hands-on course. Temporary computer workstations for training-related data processing can be provided upon request – please inquire in advance to confirm their availability.
