alterlab-ginkgo-cloud

name	alterlab-ginkgo-cloud
description	Submits and manages protocols on Ginkgo Bioworks Cloud Lab (cloud.ginkgo.bio), a web-based interface for autonomous lab execution on Reconfigurable Automation Carts (RACs), covering protocol selection, input preparation, pricing, and ordering workflows. Use when running cell-free protein expression (validation or optimization), generating fluorescent pixel art, or interacting with Ginkgo Cloud Lab services. Part of the AlterLab Academic Skills suite.
license	MIT
allowed-tools	Read Write Edit Bash(curl:*) Bash(python:*)
compatibility	Requires a Ginkgo Cloud Lab account (cloud.ginkgo.bio); account creation or institutional access may be needed to submit and order protocols
metadata	{"skill-author":"AlterLab","version":"1.0.0"}

Ginkgo Cloud Lab

Overview

Ginkgo Cloud Lab (https://cloud.ginkgo.bio) provides remote access to Ginkgo Bioworks' autonomous lab infrastructure. Protocols are executed on Reconfigurable Automation Carts (RACs) -- modular units with robotic arms, maglev sample transport, and industrial-grade software spanning 70+ instruments.

The platform also includes EstiMate, an AI agent that accepts human-language protocol descriptions and returns feasibility assessments and pricing for custom workflows beyond the listed protocols.

Available Protocols

1. Cell Free Protein Expression Validation

Rapid go/no-go expression screening using reconstituted E. coli CFPS. Submit a FASTA sequence (up to 1800 bp) and receive expression confirmation, baseline titer (mg/L), and initial purity with virtual gel images.

• Price: $39/sample | Turnaround: 5-10 days | Status: Certified
• Details: See references/cell-free-protein-expression-validation.md

2. Cell Free Protein Expression Optimization

DoE-based optimization across up to 24 conditions per protein (lysates, temperatures, chaperones, disulfide enhancers, cofactors). Designed for difficult-to-express and membrane proteins.

• Price: $199/sample | Turnaround: 6-11 days | Status: Certified
• Details: See references/cell-free-protein-expression-optimization.md

3. Fluorescent Pixel Art Generation

Transform a pixel art image (48x48 to 96x96 px, PNG/SVG) into fluorescent bacterial artwork using up to 11 E. coli strains via acoustic dispensing. Delivered as high-res UV photographs.

• Price: $25/plate | Turnaround: 5-7 days | Status: Beta
• Details: See references/fluorescent-pixel-art-generation.md

General Ordering Workflow

1. Select a protocol at https://cloud.ginkgo.bio/protocols
2. Configure parameters (number of samples/proteins, replicates, plates)
3. Upload input files (FASTA for protein protocols, PNG/SVG for pixel art)
4. Add any special requirements in the Additional Details field
5. Submit and receive a feasibility report and price quote

For protocols not listed above, use the EstiMate chat to describe a custom protocol in plain language and receive compatibility assessment and pricing.

Authentication

Access Ginkgo Cloud Lab at https://cloud.ginkgo.bio. Account creation or institutional access may be required. Contact Ginkgo at [e-mail] for access questions.

Key Infrastructure

• RACs (Reconfigurable Automation Carts): Modular robotic units with high-precision arms and maglev transport
• Catalyst Software: Protocol orchestration, scheduling, parameterization, and real-time monitoring
• 70+ integrated instruments: Sample prep, liquid handling, analytical readouts, storage, incubation
• Nebula: Ginkgo's autonomous lab facility in Boston, MA