Molecular and Genomics Core Facility Staff

The UMMC Molecular and Genomics Core Facility (MGCF) is under the direction of Michael R. Garrett, PhD, MBA (Director) and D. Ashley Robinson, PhD (Associate Director) and employs 4.5 FTE experienced staff in performing a variety of genomic methodologies. Consultation and genomic services are offered to all UMMC investigators as well as other institutions of higher learning across the state of Mississippi.

Isolation, Sample QC, and Genotyping Services

Eric Earnest
Researcher III

Eric aids researchers in the sample submission process, logging projects into the laboratory management system, isolation and quality control of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), genotyping, performing quantitative real-time PCR, and assisting in NGS library preparation. In addition, Eric handles orders and supplies for the Genomics Core Facility.

Next Generation Sequencing Services

Ashley C. Johnson, MS
Scientist III 

Ashley's duties include overseeing several genomic technology platforms in the MGCF and is experienced in performing multiple next-generation sequencing  (NGS) methodologies, including RNA sequencing, whole genome sequencing, amplicon sequencing/panels, methylation sequencing, single cell transcriptome analysis, and whole viral sequencing of SARS-CoV-2. Ashley also helps with consultations for multiple assays within the Genomics Core.

Wenjie Wu
Scientist II

Wenjie's duties include performing quantitative real-time PCR and multiple next-generation sequencing  (NGS) methodologies, including RNA sequencing, small RNA sequencing, single cell transcriptome analysis, and whole viral sequencing of SARS-CoV-2.

Jackie Starrett, MLS(ASCP)
Researcher IV

Jackie's duties include aiding researchers in the sample submission process, logging projects into the laboratory management system, isolation and quality control of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), genotyping, performing quantitative real-time PCR, and preforming NGS library preparation and sequencing on multiple instruments. Assay development and deployment along with consultation with investigators round out her duties.

Nikaela Aitken, MS
Scientist II

Nikaela's duties include aiding researchers in the sample submission process, logging projects into the laboratory management system, isolation and quality control of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), genotyping, performing quantitative real-time PCR, and preforming NGS library preparation and sequencing. Assay development and investigator consultations are duties as well.

Clinical and Translational Services

Jake R. Johnston, MS, MB(ASCP)
Molecular Pathology Specialist

Jake's short-term responsibilities will be to update, establish, and document NGS applications and laboratory protocols and procedures to establish the MGCF as a high complexity CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) certified laboratory. Subsequently, the MGCF will implement select genetic tests that can aid in clinical patient care and translational research. He is experienced with clinical lab start up and development, along with developing and validating high complexity clinical assays.