sci-ginkgo-cloud-lab

# 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 cloud@ginkgo.bio 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