Biology Imaging Facility

Seems like only yesterday we were doing this but due to extremely rising costs, we are no longer using ClusterMarket (BookIt) as of 10/25/23.  I am in the process of setting up the new system.

In the meantime, any questions comments or issues should be directed to blute@bu.edu

Thank you for your patience

Todd

TLDR version:

1)The Biology Imaging Facility (formerly Proteomics and Imaging Core Facility) is a multi-user facility that while being part of the Biology Department serves the entire university.

2)The facility operates as a training and supervised usage facility rather than a product on-demand facility.

3)All of our equipment requires initial training and is scheduled through the ———– scheduling system.

4) Any questions about access, rates, and other concerns may be directed to the director Dr. Todd Blute (blute@bu or 3-2638)

 

The general rules for all core use

There are a few rules that apply to all of the equipment and facilities.  Failure to follow the rules may result in the suspension of access.

  • All use must be recorded online, at the instrument with use logs or both where applicable.
    • Even if there are no direct charges associated with use, you MUST accurately record your usage.
  • Improper use of equipment can result in damage charges and prohibition from future use.
  • Do not use another’s ID for access. Any trained user can be granted access and everyone should use their own ID to access the facilities.
  • Report any problems, difficulties, concerns, or issues with as much detail as you can provide to Todd (blute@bu.edu) as soon as possible.
  • Please return the space to the way you found it, push in any chairs that were used, turn off lights, shut down systems where appropriate, etc.
  • If you find a system in an inoperable (suboptimal condition) upon arrival notify core staff as soon as possible.
  • No one is to use any core equipment without prior training or the consent of staff.

If you have questions about the scheduler application, contact Todd directly(blute@bu or 3-2638).

  • Imaging systems:
    • We have multiple Confocal Microscopy systems, wide-field fluorescent microscopes with high-resolution color or high-sensitivity fluorescent cameras, a fluorescent scanner, a multi-mode fluorescent plate reader, and a BD FACSCalibur flow cytometer that is analysis only (no sorting).
    • Aseptic Cell Sorter: a staff-operated Sony SH800 Cell Sorter on the CRC.  New users should contact Todd to discuss the project and schedule time.
  • Equipment:
    • other equipment that is useful in the preparation of samples.  This page has links for the microtomes and other specimen prep equipment. Protocols, SOPS, and manuals can also be found here.  Note you will need to be connected to the BU network to download these in-house references.
  • Genomics:
    • Our genomics instruments include a 384 well real-time PCR thermocycler, Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer, and various gel imaging technologies.
    • Single cell transcriptomics -10x Chromium system. Analysis of the RNA from individual cells.
    • Xenium In situ analyzer for subcellular profiling of hundreds of RNA targets in tissue sections.  Spatial resolution is preserved
  • Proteomics is no longer a core workflow and does not currently have scheduled equipment.  Feel free to consult our proteomics resource information and contact us to discuss any questions or needs.