Core Facilities
Providing faculty with access to high-end instrumentation is key to building an environment conducive to research. Core facilities allow researchers to try new techniques in their research without investing finances and time in instrumentation and protocols. At the Institute for Genomic Biology, the core facilities are designed as extensions of the research labs with 24-hour access to instrumentation and staff to train users, maintain equipment, and work with faculty to purchase equipment that will adjust to and advance research needs. The four core facilities meet microscopy, plant growth, microfabrication, and analytical needs.
The Microscopy and Imaging Facility (MIF) offers access to a structured illumination fluorescence microscope and a laser capture microscope. In addition, the facility is pursuing the acquisition of a multi-photon confocal microscope and a Scanning Electron Microscope for serial block face imaging. Microscopy staff extends training and sample preparation services, as well as expertise in experiment design. With the IGB's location on campus, the MIF affords the academic community a central location for biological microscopy.
Eight plant growth chambers in the Plant Growth Facility (PGF) provide the Genomic Ecology of Global Change Theme with local access to atmospheric, temperature, humidity, and lighting controlled environments.
As biological research intersects with bioengineering and biomaterials, microfabrication facilities are necessary to construct model devices. A mask aligner, along with spin coaters and silicon processing equipment, are provided in a clean environment in the Microfabrication Facility. This facility will mature to provide the required fabrication equipment to support the research needs of the Institute.
Local access to state-of-the-art equipment like the Biosystems 7900 PCR instrument and an Agilent GCMS are offered through the teaming of the IGB's Bioanalytical Facility and the campus Biotechnology Center, which helps provide investigators with research infrastructure and services.
As the IGB establishes itself as a preeminent institute among the pioneers of the life sciences, the core facilities will work with the research themes to develop advanced capabilities that will enhance the University research environment.
