Automating the preparation of genetic samples for faster outbreak response
Official title: System for unitary automation of library preparation
Funded at Redbud Labs, INC. · NIH-11092107 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, easy-to-use machine that helps prepare genetic samples quickly, so doctors can better track and respond to virus outbreaks and understand how viruses are changing, especially in places with limited resources.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Redbud Labs, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 17, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,235,487 |
| NIH project number | 5R44GM145194-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092107 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals in areas at risk of infectious disease outbreaks, particularly in resource-limited settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in regions prone to infectious disease outbreaks or who do not require rapid genomic sequencing will likely not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an automated system for preparing genetic samples, which is essential for tracking virus evolution and outbreak response. By creating a user-friendly device that can operate in resource-limited settings, the project aims to streamline the library preparation process, allowing for rapid sequencing results. This will enable healthcare providers to identify emerging virus variants and predict their spread much faster than current methods. The approach involves automating specific operations in the sample preparation process, which can be customized based on the needs of different sequencing applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the time needed to prepare genetic samples, leading to quicker identification of outbreaks and more effective public health responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in automating sample preparation processes, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant advancements in outbreak response.
Where this research is happening
-
Redbud Labs, INC.
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fisher, Jay Kenneth — Redbud Labs, INC.
- Study coordinator: Fisher, Jay Kenneth
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.