CAIS FAQ
Are you still accepting samples during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Yes. University of Georgia operations, including the Center for Applied Isotope Studies, began reopening in June and is now completely open.
Where can I find your sample submission forms?
Sample submission forms can be found here.
I’m a new client. Do I need to set up an account?
You do not need an account, but you will need to contact us BEFORE sending samples. This is so we can guide you in choosing the right service for your important samples. A lot of information about pricing, service options, and submission requirements can be found on the lab’s analytical service page, but for first time clients we will still need to discuss your needs. In addition, please let us know if you plan to pay by bank wire, would like leftover sample returned to you, and/or need a hard copy of the report/data since additional fees may apply. Please note that we do not accept samples from individuals.
Do you offer Rush service?
Yes, we do! To find out about each lab’s Rush fees and turnaround time please visit their analytical service page or contact the lab manager. Please note that we cannot guarantee rush turn around at this time due to COVID-19 safety precautions. Other tips for speedier service include emailing the lab manager a copy of your completed sample submission form ahead of time and send tracking information.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payment by check, credit card, purchase order, or bank wire. Please note that payment terms are Net 30 days.
Checks: Please make check payable to: “University of Georgia/CAIS” and include the CAIS Invoice No. in the Reference section. This number can also be found on your report.
Please remit payment to:
Center for Applied Isotope Studies
C.A.I.S. Building
120 Riverbend Road
Athens, GA 30602-4702
USA
Bank wires: Please send an email to cais@uga.edu specifying that you would like to pay your invoice by ACH bank wire. We will send you a secure link to our bank information via Sendfiles. The packet with our bank information can only be opened with the email by which it is received. Please do not communicate this banking information via an unsecure email account. Also include our invoice number in the transaction to receive the proper credit.
Purchase orders: If you plan to pay by PO and you work at a university or large company you will most likely need a formal quote before you can request a PO from your purchasing department, which should be done before submitting samples.
Credit Cards: Online payments can be made using UGA’s secure payment site. Please be sure to reference the CAIS Invoice No. to receive proper credit. This number can also be found on your report.
Payment By P-Card: Same as Credit Card.
UGA clients: we encouraged you to use your SpeedType. Otherwise full chartstrings must be provided.
Can I get a quote?
Pricing information can be found on each lab’s analytical service page or by contacting the lab manager. If you would like a formal quote, please contact the lab manager with the following: your contact information, sample type, number of samples, sample prep and analysis required, and whether you need Rush service. In addition, please let us know if you plan to pay by bank wire, would like leftover sample returned to you, and/or need a hard copy of the report/data since additional fees may apply.
What is ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation?
ISO 17025 is an international standard containing general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. It is, fundamentally, a system designed to ensure repeatability and quality of services provided by laboratories. For more information about our ISO accreditation click here.
Are your reports digital or hard copy?
We provide digital reports. If you require a hard copy please let us know in advance so we can include any shipping charges in our quote.
Can I have my leftover sample returned to me after analysis?
Yes, we can do that. Please contact the lab manager. You will need to provide your mailing address and courier account number, or have a shipping fee added to your invoice.
Do you offer any discounts?
We currently offer internal rates to all University System of Georgia (USG) institutions, as well as Emory University. We encourage submissions from indigenous peoples-if you are a member of a federally recognized nation, please contact our office with proof of status. Please contact the lab manager to inquire about volume discounts for large numbers of samples.
What is your shipping address?
Our address is:
Specify which lab (e.g., Natural Products, Radiocarbon, SIEL, PCL, etc.)
Center for Applied Isotope Studies
120 Riverbend Road
Athens, GA 30602-4702
USA
All packages must include a completed sample submission form. Please don’t select Saturday or Weekend delivery options, as we are not able to receive packages on weekends. Please note that USPS packages arrive at UGA’s Central Receiving before they are routed to CAIS, which may add 1-2 days to the shipping time. For Rush or frozen samples we recommend using a courier service (e.g., UPS, Fed-Ex, DHL) that will deliver directly to our door. If you need a phone number for your shipment, please use (706) 542-1395.
I’m local. Can I drop off my samples?
Yes! You will still need to bring a completed sample submission form (UGA clients must have their SpeedType or full chartstrings listed before analysis can begin). Sample drop-off is from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Please come into the main office (first door on the right) to drop off samples. Our address is:
Center for Applied Isotope Studies
120 Riverbend Road
Athens, GA 30602
Nearest UGA Campus Transit stops: Riverbend Research Labs, UGA Automotive Center.
I’m interested in working at CAIS. Are you hiring?
We periodically hire scientists, technicians, and support staff . To find job opportunities at CAIS please visit https://www.ugajobsearch.com/ (Department = VPR-Ctr Applied Isotope Study). For graduate assistantships and undergraduate employment for UGA students please contact the PI of the lab you are interested in. The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.
I have feedback. Who can I contact?
If you would like to leave feedback you can use our customer satisfaction survey. If you have specific questions or concerns about your results please contact the lab manager directly and we will help you get the answers you need. Billing questions can be directed to caisresults@uga.edu or (706) 542-1395.