Illumina MiSeq i100Plus sequencing system

The contract involves the procurement of new Illumina MiSeq i100Plus genomic sequencing systems to replace older models with enhanced technology. These new instruments offer improved throughput, greater efficiency, accuracy, and reduced cost per genome sequencing. The advanced sequencing systems will support the Office of Applied Molecular Technologies (OAMT) scientists in designing and developing FDA sequencing applications for a variety of foodborne pathogens, including bacteria such as Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, STEC, as well as viruses and parasites. Additionally, the systems will be used to develop and optimize next-generation sequencing laboratory protocols and to evaluate new sequencing approaches like Targeted Amplicon Sequencing against other genomic techniques. Three of these sequencing instruments are planned for deployment: one each for MOD1 (DFES) and CPK1 (DFSG), with a third designated for Moffett (DFPST) that is currently unfunded. The contract is managed under the Food and Drug Administration, reflecting the agency’s commitment to advancing genomic research and diagnostic capability for food safety. The acquisition supports efforts to enhance pathogen detection and characterization, ultimately strengthening public health response and foodborne disease prevention.