Sample Submission

Please review this sample submission information before sending samples to the SIF.

Submitting Solid Samples to the UC Davis Stable Isotope Facility
• Organize samples into a clean 96-well tray. Load samples across rows and fully populate each row.
• Group samples of similar material together (for example, place all animal tissue samples in sequential cells).
    ° For enriched samples, arrange samples from low to high enrichment to avoid wide fluctuations in isotope content. Place non-enriched control samples ahead of enriched samples within the same tray. Use separate trays for different enriched and natural abundance experiments.
• Secure small samples by placing an index card (cut to size) or Parafilm over the tray before securing the lid; do not use adhesive tape to cover the open wells. Tape the lid securely closed on all four sides. Turn the tray over and gently shake to test if samples stay in the wells or if the capsules leak sample material. Re-encapsulate any leaky capsules before shipping.
• Soil Permits are required for packages containing soil, forest litter, wood or plant compost, humus, and earthworm castings. Please print and include a soil permit with your soil sample shipments.

Samples in Glass Vials to the UC Davis Stable Isotope Facility
• Organize - Label each vial with a unique ID# as your data will reference your samples using these ID#s.
• Group vials in ziplock bags, small boxes, or their original boxes. Vials larger than 20mLs ship best when separated by cardboard dividers. Loose vials can shatter during shipping.
• Secure groups of vials in a larger sturdy box with styrofoam peanuts or bubble wrap.

Submit Paperwork with Your Samples
• Analysis Order Form must accompany your shipment.
    ° US customers, please include your FED ID# (aka EIN# or Tax ID#)
    ° Complete a separate Analysis Order Form and Sample List for each type of analysis (e.g., C&Nsolid vs. O/H vs. gas samples) because your paperwork will go to different technicians.
• Sample List must accompany your shipment.
    ° Do not modify the Sample List structure. Deleting any columns or rows affects our ability to use your file.
    ° For solid samples, note empty wells that exist for your tray.
    ° Each sample’s ID must be unique. Do not repeat sample ID names, including the name “empty” for empty wells. Instead, sequentially number your empty wells (i.e., empty1, empty2, empty3…). This helps us track your samples. Results will be reported using the sample ID#, unique tray name and well position (e.g., ID-Tray-A1).
    ° Include weights for solid samples.
    ° Do not use comma ( , ), underscore ( _ ), backslash( \ ), or forward slash ( / ) anywhere on the sample list. Maximum 20 characters per cell.

• E-mail a copy of your Analysis Order Form and Sample List to sif@ucdavis.edu
    ° Save a copy of your forms

I have reviewed the sample submission information. Take me to the Analysis Order Form and Sample List

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