The Analytical Genomics Department is composed of two specialized Functional Units: Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Medical Genomics (MedGen). Together, these units harness state-of-the-art sequencing technologies and platforms to drive innovation in genomic biomarker discovery and advance precision cancer care. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of NGS analyses tailored to a diverse range of input materials, ensuring high-quality, reproducible results for both research and clinical applications.
Analytical Genomics
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Alina Henrich
Co-Director Analytical Genomics
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Dr. Christian Albrecht
Co-Director Analytical Genomics
Our vision
We are committed to developing and implementing cutting-edge sequencing technologies that fuel innovation in genomic biomarker discovery and accelerate advancements in precision cancer care. Our mission is to deliver best-in-class molecular profiling through the efficient, cost-effective application of NGS technologies, supported by the routine use of standardized processes within a robust QA system.
Next Generation Sequencing
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Dr. Qin Zhang
Head of Functional Unit NGS
The NGS Unit is dedicated to pioneering the development and implementation of novel sequencing methods, instruments, and workflows. By creating custom solutions tailored to specific research and clinical needs, the unit establishes innovative sequencing technologies that redefine the boundaries of genomic research.
Our activities and competences
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Advanced Sequencing Methods
Developing and implementing cutting-edge sequencing technologies and instruments to drive innovation in genomic research.
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Liquid Biopsy Applications
Designing targeted pan-cancer oncopanel assays to detect and monitor patient-specific mutations in ctDNA from minimally invasive liquid biopsy samples.
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Long-Read Sequencing for Neoantigen Discovery
Leveraging Oxford Nanopore sequencing to identify cancer-derived transcriptomic and genomic alterations for neoantigen discovery.
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Collaborative and Custom Solutions
Performing amplicon-based analyses, supporting epigenetic sequencing, and collaborating with Computational Medicine, Medical Genomics, and Single Cell Genomics teams to deliver tailored sequencing solutions.
Our methods and platforms
Illumina NovaSeq X Plus
Replacing the NovaSeq6000, this platform offers ultra-high accuracy (Q40), reduced sequencing costs, and faster turnaround times, eliminating pooling delays.
Illumina NextSeq2000
Simplified workflow with integrated secondary analysis, ideal for mid-output sequencing needs.
Illumina MiSeq
A cost-effective, rapid sequencing platform for targeted gene, small genome, and amplicon sequencing.
Illumina MiSeq i100 Plus
A versatile platform for targeted sequencing applications, including gene panels and small genomes, with enhanced performance.
Long-read sequencing
Oxford Nanopore PromethION 2 Solo: Enables sequencing of kilobase-long DNA or RNA molecules for accurate characterization of genetic alterations.
Oxford Nanopore MinION: A portable, easy-to-use sequencing device ideal for flexible applications.
Medical Genomics
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Alina Henrich
Co-Head Functional Unit Medical Genomics
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Dr. Christian Albrecht
Co-Head Functional Unit Medical Genomics
The Medical Genomics Unit specializes in performing standardized NGS analyses using established workflows and protocols. By ensuring high-quality, reproducible results, this unit supports a wide range of molecular profiling applications for both research and clinical needs.
Our activities and competences
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Comprehensive NGS Analyses
Providing high-throughput sequencing for molecular profiling, including RNA sequencing, WES, WGS, amplicon sequencing, and TCR sequencing.
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Sample Preparation and Processing
Handling a wide variety of sample types, including whole blood, cells, fresh frozen tissue, FFPE tissue, and saliva, using standardized protocols to ensure consistency and reliability.
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Integrated Bioinformatics Services
Delivering advanced bioinformatics solutions, including transcriptome analysis, differential gene expression, mutation analysis, target identification, fusion gene analysis, and custom bioinformatics services, in collaboration with FU Computational Medicine.
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End-to-End Project Support
Providing comprehensive project support, including experimental design, project planning, pricing, and RNA/DNA extraction, as part of our NGS fee-for-service offerings.
Our methods and platforms
Illumina NovaSeq X Plus
Offers ultra-high accuracy (Q40) and enhanced sensitivity for liquid biopsy applications, with reduced sequencing costs and faster turnaround times.
Illumina NextSeq2000
Simplified workflow with integrated secondary analysis, ideal for mid-output sequencing needs.
Illumina MiSeq
A cost-effective, rapid sequencing platform for targeted gene, small genome, and amplicon sequencing.
Illumina MiSeq i100 Plus
A versatile platform for targeted sequencing applications, including gene panels and small genomes, with enhanced performance.
