MolabIS: A Labs Backbone for Storing, Managing and Evaluating Molecular Genetics Data

Using paper lab books and spreadsheets to store and manage growing datasets in a file system is inefficient, time consuming and error-prone. Therefore, the overall purpose of this study is to develop an integrated information system for small laboratories conducting Sanger sequencing and microsatellite genotyping projects. To address this, the thesis has investigated the following three issues. First, we proposed a uniform solution using the workflow approach to efficiently collect and store data items in different labs. The outcome is the design of the formalized data framework which is the basic to create a general data model for biodiversity studies. Second, we designed and implemented a web-based information system (MolabIS) allowing lab people to store all original data at each step of their workflow. MolabIS provides essential tools to import, store, organize, search, modify, report and export relevant data. Finally, we conducted a case study to evaluate the performance of MolabIS with typical operations in a production mode. Consequently, we can propose the use of virtual appliance as an efficient solution for the deployment of complex open-source information systems like MolabIS. The major result of this study, along with the publications, is the MolabIS software which is freely released under GPL license at http://www.molabis.org. With its general data model, easy installation process and additional tools for data migration, MolabIS can be used in a wide range of molecular genetics labs

Bannan Engineering Laboratories Redesign

Due to the growing student body within Santa Clara University\u27s School of Engineering, an increase in classrooms, laboratories, offices, and study spaces is needed to for student engineering resources. The objective of the Bannan Engineering Laboratories Redesign is to provide a preliminary structural design and corresponding construction management schedule and budget as an alternative to the existing single-story Bannan Engineering Laboratories building. The proposed design consists of three floors of versatile spaces: one basement and two stories above ground. The 160-ft by 68-ft building features eleven hybrid classroom/laboratories in the basement, seven standard classrooms on the first floor, fourteen faculty offices on the second floor, five open collaboration/study areas throughout the building, and an open outdoor patio. This resulted in over 32,000 square feet of versatile space, designed to be convertible for classroom, laboratory, or general office use, a 300% increase in comparison to the current Bannan Engineering Laboratories building. The preliminary structural design consists of analysis and design calculations and for the structure\u27s steel beams, girders, and columns, and the seismic design of special concentric braced frames. To insure construction feasibility, the project scope also includes an introductory construction schedule and a building cost estimate. The projected cost is $1.1 million for the structural steel and structural concrete, with an expected estimated time frame of 15 months