The Scientific Operations Spatial Team carries out laboratory processing of samples for spatial analysis, supporting research projects across the institute. By combining expertise in histology and molecular biology, we generate spatially resolved gene expression data. My primary responsibilities include delivering end-to-end spatial workflows such as processing samples, sectioning, and Xenium. As well as developing our custom built LIMS, STAN.
Day-to-day role involves a broad range of histology and spatial genomics techniques, including:
- Histology and sample quality control: Tissue processing (fresh frozen and FFPE), Cryostat sectioning, and high-quality sectioning for a range of applications, including morphology quality control, RNA extraction, Visium, and Xenium workflows. Performing H&E staining, digital pathology imaging, and RNA quality assessment for both fresh frozen and FFPE tissue samples.
- Spatial genomics: Preparation of 10x Genomics Visium and Xenium workflows.
- Data management and quality assurance: Reviewing and approving the teams risk assessments, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training competency documents. I also responsible for driving the teams a bespoke Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to manage sample tracking and laboratory workflows, and reporting from the LIMS to show the teams KPIs and data.