Bioinformatics Platform
Transforming raw sequencing data into actionable biological insights — from variant calling to clinical-grade genetic reports
The Bioinformatics Platform at the Bioscience CoreLab provides state-of-the-art computational analysis, data management, and software solutions to support cutting-edge genomic research. Operating in seamless integration with our advanced sequencing and genotyping facility, we offer robust, end-to-end bioinformatics support for researchers, clinicians, and industry partners. From initial experimental design to publication-ready figures, our platform ensures the extraction of highly accurate, reproducible data.
Core Services & Workflows
We offer customized, scalable data analysis pipelines tailored to a wide range of genomic applications.
High-Throughput Genomic Analysis
Comprehensive pipelines for Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), and targeted sequencing. Services include de novo assembly, read mapping, variant calling (SNPs, Indels, SVs), and annotation for clinical genetics and precision medicine.
Metagenomics & Microbial Ecology
Advanced taxonomic profiling and functional analysis of complex microbial communities. We provide robust workflows for 16S/18S/ITS amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomics, supporting both environmental (e.g., soil microbiome) and clinical research.
Microarray & Genotyping Analysis
High-throughput data extraction, quality control, and genotyping analysis for high-density microarrays.
Custom Pipeline Development
Development of bespoke bioinformatics workflows utilizing industry-standard scripting, containerization (e.g., Docker), and specialized software (e.g., CLC Genomics Workbench, QIIME 2) to meet unique research objectives.
What Sets Us Apart
Beyond standard bioinformatics analysis, our platform offers two flagship capabilities rarely available on the African continent.
Comprehensive Personal Genetic Report
We generate in-depth, individual genetic reports derived directly from Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) data. Unlike consumer-grade genotyping chips, our reports leverage the full depth of WGS to deliver clinically meaningful and lifestyle-relevant insights across four integrated modules:
Each report is generated through automated, validated bioinformatics pipelines and undergoes expert review. This service is ideal for precision medicine initiatives, wellness programs, and individuals seeking actionable genomic insights.
Emedgene — AI-Driven Variant Interpretation
Our platform is equipped with Emedgene, Illumina's advanced tertiary analysis software powered by Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI). Emedgene transforms the traditionally time-intensive process of variant interpretation into a streamlined, scalable workflow.
Emedgene positions the BCL Bioinformatics Platform as one of the few facilities in Africa offering AI-enhanced genomic interpretation at clinical-grade quality.
Computational Infrastructure
Handling the massive data volumes generated by modern sequencing instruments requires exceptional computational power. Our platform is backed by world-class IT infrastructure.
High-Performance Computing
Seamless integration with the UM6P Toubkal supercomputer, one of Africa's most powerful HPC systems, utilizing advanced SLURM job scheduling to process complex genomic algorithms at unprecedented speeds.
Secure Data Storage
High-capacity, enterprise-grade NAS environments ensure secure transfer, backup, and long-term archiving of sensitive genomic data, with strict adherence to data privacy and security protocols.
Software & Tools
Industry-standard bioinformatics stack (BWA, GATK, Samtools, STAR, PLINK, ADMIXTURE, Kraken2, QIIME 2, CLC Genomics) with containerized, reproducible workflows via Docker, Singularity, and Conda.
Interested in This Platform?
From genomic analysis to AI-driven variant interpretation, our bioinformatics team is ready to support your research with cutting-edge computational solutions.