Our Services: End-to-End Plant Synthetic Biology

The Plant SynBio Australia – ANU Facility provides comprehensive support across the entire Design, Build, Test, and Learn cycle. We equip researchers and industry partners with the scientific capabilities, advanced instrumentation, and expert guidance to turn innovative concepts into improved plants. We seek to partner with seed companies, breeders, peak bodies, regional development agencies, food & agritech companies, as well as all government agencies and research groups.

Explore our specialised service pillars below.

Design: Bridging Innovative Concepts and Tangible Solutions

We provide comprehensive foundational support to optimise your project from inception through completion.

• Workflow: Customized experimental designs based on your target objectives, test requirements, and delivery specifications for synthetic biology solutions.
• Genetic Construct: Automated assembly-compatible constructs with optimised, validated transformation vectors for targeted gene delivery and genetic incorporation; enabling tissue-specific and subcellular level modifications; facilitating multiplexed expression of >10 genes simultaneously.
• Validation: High-throughput assay platform design, genotyping ang phenotyping analysis.
• Strategic Consultancy: Project design and feasibility analysis, project coordination, grant formulation and application support, intellectual property management, and regulatory compliance guidance.

Build: From Precision Genetic Construct to Targeted Plant Modification

Leverage our validated toolkits and platforms for efficient genetic assembly and transformation.

• Construct Assembly: Precision genetic cloning and engineering across different biological scales: from metabolites and signalling pathways (native and orthologs) to enzymes and sub-cellular components, Expertise in Gateway, Golden Gate, Golden Loop and Gibson methodologies.
• Engineered Plant Lines: Expertise in CRISPR mediated genome editing and stable transformation systems. Precision gene-edited plant lines with validated genetic screening for downstream application.
• High–throughput screening platform: Customised single-cell assay development, using protoplast-based screening systems.
• Automated Robotics Platform: Access to our customisable robotics platform for versatile construct assembly and molecular assays, enabling streamlined, labour-efficient workflows.

Test: High-Throughput Analysis and Validation

Our facility delivers robust analytical systems to characterise and optimise genetic modifications and trait performance.

• High-throughput Screening: Protoplast-based functional assays, FACS-based cell sorting, robotics-assisted genotyping pipelines.
• Protein and Metabolic Pathway Optimisation: Transient expression systems, FACS analysis, and in vivo assays utilising protoplasts, cell culture, callus, or leaf infiltration.
• Comprehensive Validation: Established workflows for validating genetic edits, assessing off-target effects, and evaluating trait performance integrated with whole-genome sequencing and protein mass spectrometry.
• Established Protocols: Optimise proven transient and stable transformation systems for major crops (e.g., rice, canola, wheat) and adaptable protocols model for additional crop species, including but not limited to maize, barley.

Learn: Self-Evolution & Stewardship

Transform experimental outcomes into actionable knowledge and responsible innovation.

• Responsible Innovation Framework: Guidance on stewardship best practices aligned with programs such as ‘Excellence through Stewardship’ including single seed descend traceability , secure data management, transparent record-keeping, and responsible data sourcing.
• Emerging Technologies: Active integration of cutting-edge platforms including AI agency and analytics, to enhance the iterative design-build-test-learn cycle.

Access & Partnership Models

We offer flexible engagement models tailored to your needs. 

Fee-for-Service

Ideal for defined projects. We provide a tailored quote for specific analysis or engineering work. You retain all intellectual property and data generated within the defined field of use.

Incubation Program

Start-ups can access lab/office space, safety support, consumables, and full use of facility equipment for an annual fee. Incubatees are embedded within our team, retaining full ownership of their IP and data.

Research Collaboration

For projects requiring deep co-development (e.g., contract research, grant partnerships). We contribute significant intellectual input, with milestones, deliverables, and IP arrangements formalised in a collaborative agreement.

Discover more about synthetic biology across different parts of ANU.

Find out more

Contact us today: psba@anu.edu.au