Molecular Ecology Laboratory

GLEC operates a molecular ecology laboratory at our Traverse City, Michigan location. The laboratory was established in 2021 to conduct assays for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. It was built as a Biosafety Laboratory Level 2 (BSL2) to support this initial work and allows us to process raw wastewater samples. We also conduct PCR-based variant testing for SARS-CoV-2. Our staff has performed organic extractions and column kit extractions for a variety of applications with RNA and DNA. GLEC also has the capacity to conduct molecular source tracking (MST) on surface water samples to determine the source of fecal contamination for a variety of animal and human targets. GLEC researchers are experienced in executing gene expression experiments as well as developing, validating, and optimizing assays. With GLEC’s extensive field sampling experience and equipment, GLEC molecular ecology staff can also provide proper sample collection, preservation, and storage for a wide range of experimental designs.