Ginkgo
This page provides detailed information specific to schools matched with Ginkgo
Please also visit our general Getting Started page for detailed support on setting up your testing operations.
What you can find here…
About Ginkgo
Ginkgo is a Boston-based company that has started Concentric by Gingko, which provides COVID-19 testing services, including classroom pooled testing.
Connecting with Ginkgo
Submit a Support Ticket
Email: K12@ginkgobioworks.com
Customer Support: (855) 768-7717
Getting Started with Ginkgo BioWorks
2
Get Trained
Download and review documents (forms, step-by-step instructions, and training materials), and use to ensure relevant testing team members are trained.
Tier 2 Support
To discuss Tier 2 support, please reach out to Ginkgo at K12@ginkgobioworks.com.
Ginkgo’s Digital Platform
Ginkgo has developed their own digital platform to enable you to track your pooled testing as well as your follow-up testing with both BinaxNOW and individual PCR tests
For more information on the platform see Ginkgo’s
To learn about collecting consent and building your testing roster see our section on Getting Consent
Getting Your Pools to the Lab with Ginkgo
Follow Ginkgo packaging and shipping instructions to ship boxes using supplied prepaid FedEx labels. Schools can arrange for pick up directly with FedEx.
Alternatively, use this form to arrange a courier service with Ginkgo.
Follow-Up Testing Options with Ginkgo
All tests must be registered and logged via the Concentric by Ginkgo platform as required by public health laws. This enables results to be reported directly to public health authorities without any additional action from the school.
BinaxNOW Rapid Antigen Tests - Free, Included with the DESE Program
Individual PCR from Rutgers (Saliva test) - $82 (individual physician order included); $78 (if you already have a standing physician order)
About the Tests Offered by Ginkgo
Pooled PCR Test
The Concentric by Ginkgo SARS-CoV-2 NGS test is an end-point multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay with internal controls that are quantified by next-generation sequencing (NGS) for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory specimens.
Ginkgo has internally validated their pooling methodology.
Testing is limited to Ginkgo Bioworks, Boston, MA, or other laboratories designated by Ginkgo Bioworks that are also certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA), 42 U.S.C. §263a, to perform high complexity tests.
Individual Follow-Up Tests
BinaxNOW
BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card is a rapid antigen test produced by Abbott.
The test has an EUA which can be found here.
Please note that this test, along with most COVID-19 tests, does not have an EUA for asymptomatic screening testing.
This study examines the sensitivity and specificity of BinaxNOW in different populations in Massachusetts - including asymptomatic children.
Antigen tests like this tend to be less sensitive in populations without symptoms.
Individual PCR
Ginkgo offers the Infinity BiologiX TaqPath ARS-CoV-2 Assay, a saliva based test, as it’s individual PCR follow-up option.
It has an EUA which can be found here. the BiologiX collection kit also has an EUA for self-collection. Here are fact sheets about the test for patients and healthcare providers.
Please note that this test, along with most COVID-19 tests, does not have an EUA for asymptomatic screening testing.
Molecular tests like this one are highly sensitive, even among populations without symptoms.
None of these tests are approved or cleared by the FDA. They are authorized under an emergency mechanism called an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) or are considered laboratory developed tests, which are authorized to be performed in designated laboratories only.