Doubling in Laboratory Facilities at Cobb Headquarters

US - A new laboratory to provide for the expanding quality assurance and research programmes is being constructed at the Siloam Springs, Arkansas, headquarters of Cobb-Vantress.
calendar icon 28 April 2010
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The facility, which will increase laboratory space from 6,000 to 11,000 square feet (1022 square metres), represents an investment of $1.8 million (€1.34 million). With construction now under way, the laboratory should be operational in early 2011.

It will accommodate both disease diagnostics and research biotechnology, using the same molecular equipment and personnel to analyse samples.

Both utilise a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process for multiplying the DNA so that the genetic information can be analysed.

Joe Shultz, Cobb laboratory director, said: "Molecular analysis is the same in different functions of our business – from gathering farm swabs for quality assurance to collecting blood samples for DNA marker assisted selection. It makes sense to have a single area where all the analysis can take place."

The new laboratory is designed to maximize process workflow and minimize the possibility of cross-contamination of samples. Features of the building will embrace green technology by incorporating improved heating, air conditioning and ventilation as well as highly efficient insulation that will provide a good heating and cooling buffer.

As there will also be limited access for people not working in the laboratory, it will be possible to view the work areas through windows in a visitor hallway.


Laboratory foundations at the Cobb site in Siloam Springs
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