Question 1

How do I know which service is right for my project?

Accepted Answer

The best starting point is to tell us what you are trying to decide or document - not what technology you think you need. We will recommend the right approach based on your sample type, study design, and objectives. If you are unsure, request a consultation and we will help you scope the project.

Question 2

Can I get a quote before committing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Contact us with a brief description of your project and we will provide a quote based on your service needs and dataset size. Additional bioinformatic analysis or communication beyond the agreed scope can be arranged at an hourly rate.

Question 3

How long does a typical project take?

Accepted Answer

Sequencing of samples typically takes 1-2 months from when samples arrive in the lab, depending on pipeline and project size. Data processing and reporting for up to 400 samples using 16S rRNA sequencing is usually delivered within 2-3 weeks of data arrival. Shotgun sequencing and more complex statistical projects take longer. If you have a deadline, tell us upfront and we will plan accordingly.

Question 4

How do I collect and ship soil samples?

Accepted Answer

For soil, collect 8-16 subsamples across the field, mix them in a clean bucket, and transfer 3-4 ml into a clearly labeled clean container. Contact us before shipping and we will send you step-by-step instructions, a sample sheet, and details on where to send your samples.

Question 5

Can I send samples from outside Denmark?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We receive samples from across Europe and internationally. Contact us before shipping and we will provide the necessary instructions for your sample type and country of origin.

Question 6

What sample types do you work with?

Accepted Answer

We work with soil, root, plant, seed, fecal, tissue, and fluid samples. For animal studies we support both livestock and laboratory animal sample types. Contact us if you have an unusual sample type and we will advise on the best approach.

Question 7

How should I store samples before shipping?

Accepted Answer

Storage requirements depend on the sample type and downstream analysis. We will advise you on storage conditions when you contact us to arrange shipping. For time-sensitive samples, discuss this with us as early as possible - ideally at study design stage.

Question 8

How does data transfer work?

Accepted Answer

Data is delivered via a secure SFTP connection. You will receive login details for a private project folder containing all raw data, processed data, figures, tables, and reports. If you are sending us existing sequencing data for analysis, we will ask you to upload demultiplexed raw data to your folder along with a sample ID file and primer information if applicable.

Question 9

What if my data is not demultiplexed?

Accepted Answer

Please discuss this with us before the project starts. We can advise on how to handle multiplexed data and what additional information we will need from you.

Question 10

How secure is my data?

Accepted Answer

We use SFTP for all data transfer, private folders for each client, and encrypted backup solutions. Your data is never shared with third parties.

Question 11

What file formats are delivered?

Accepted Answer

You receive raw sequencing files, cleaned and processed data, large feature tables, figures as individual files, and reports in PDF format. Everything is organized in a consistent folder structure designed for reuse and documentation.

Question 12

Do I own my data?

Accepted Answer

Yes - always. All raw sequencing files, processed data, feature tables, figures, and protocol details belong to you and are accessible through your secure project workspace at any time.

Question 13

Can reports be white-labeled?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can deliver reports under your brand - including your logo, colors, terminology, and section order. This is available for soil, plant, and animal reporting projects. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

Question 14

What does a typical report include?

Accepted Answer

Reports vary by service, but typically include an executive summary, microbial composition and diversity summaries, group comparisons, and notes on scope and limitations. Full underlying data tables and figures are always included. For strain WGS projects, you receive a Functional Capacity Report alongside the standard sequencing outputs.

Question 15

Can I request additional analysis after delivery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Additional bioinformatic analysis or interpretation beyond the agreed project scope can be arranged at an hourly rate. Many clients request follow-up analyses after reviewing initial results - this is a normal part of how we work.

Question 16

What is the difference between amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomics?

Accepted Answer

Amplicon sequencing (e.g. 16S rRNA) targets a specific gene region to profile which microbes are present - it is cost-effective and well-suited for community composition and diversity analysis. Shotgun metagenomics sequences all DNA in the sample, providing both taxonomic and functional information. We will recommend the right approach based on your objectives and budget.

Question 17

Do you support multi-site or longitudinal projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly work on multi-site, multi-timepoint, and longitudinal programmes. We build consistent analysis frameworks across sites and seasons so results are comparable over time. If you are planning a larger programme, contact us early so we can help design the sampling and analysis strategy.

Question 18

What is whole genome sequencing (WGS) and when do I need it?

Accepted Answer

WGS sequences the complete genome of a single strain or monoculture, giving you a full picture of its identity, functional potential, and safety-relevant signals. It is relevant when you need to characterize a production strain, screen for resistance or virulence genes, or build a functional profile for product documentation or partner communication.

Question 19

What is soil microbiome analysis?

Accepted Answer

Soil microbiome analysis is the profiling of microorganisms in soil, including bacteria and fungi, to understand their composition, relative abundance, and potential functional capacity.

Question 20

Why is soil microbiome analysis important?

Accepted Answer

It helps reveal how microbial communities may be associated with nutrient availability, plant health, crop performance, and soil conditions. This can support agricultural research, product development, and documentation.

Question 21

What can soil microbiome analysis be used for?

Accepted Answer

It can be used to detect beneficial or harmful microorganisms, investigate links between the microbiome and crop outcomes, evaluate farming solutions, and support decisions in soil and plant-related projects.

Question 22

Which methods are used for soil microbiome analysis?

Accepted Answer

Common methods include 16S sequencing for bacteria, ITS sequencing for fungi, and shotgun sequencing for broader biodiversity and functional analysis. The right method depends on the project question.

Question 23

Can Biomcare support the full soil microbiome project?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Biomcare can support project planning, sample collection strategy, sequencing, data processing, microbiome profiling, biostatistical analysis, and interpretation of results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting started

Sampling & logistics

Data & delivery

Reports & results

Methods & technology