High-resolution confocal fluorescence microscope

St. Mary'S University, San Antonio TX

Investigators

Abstract

We request funds to purchase a high-resolution Zeiss fluorescence confocal LSM 900 (Laser Scanning Microscope) to support and expand research and teaching efforts at St. Mary’s University (StMU). This modern equipment will expose our student population to the best technology, giving them the experience and training to be competitive for entering top-tier biomedical graduate training programs or directly into the biomedical workforce after graduation. StMU views both teaching and research as critical components of a comprehensive college education. This S10 equipment grant will support the independent research programs of more than 5 faculty and strengthen innovative course-based undergraduate research experiences. StMU aims to expand access to transformative undergraduate research experiences and strengthen undergraduate learning environments by introducing research in the classroom. The School of Science Engineering and Technology and Department of Biological Sciences conducts a wide variety of research in model organisms (Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, and Danio rerio) as well as tissue culture. The acquisition of a confocal microscope will advance our research in whole animal models and increase access to high-resolution microscopy for all researchers and classroom laboratory activities. Additionally, the acquisition of this microscope will create opportunities for new research projects and collaborations. In addition to advancing research, this microscope will be integrated into at least three courses, Forensic Microscopy, Developmental Biology and Cell and Molecular Methods. The microscope will facilitate educational activities from basic life science to applied curriculum like forensic science. In these courses, students will be introduced to confocal microscopy, trained in its use and apply it to concepts within the curriculum. Exposure to a high-resolution fluorescence microscope will not only give students the tools they need to be successful after graduation, but it will introduce them to research and potentially stimulate student interest in biomedical research. We anticipate that through research and classroom actives, more than 100 students per year will have access to this instrument. This confocal microscope will build our institutional resources, thus supporting our teaching and research goals by providing long-term access to modern scientific equipment to our student population. StMU is poised to produce a pool of highly qualified and competitive researchers in the biomedical sciences that will catalyze scientific questions to advance science.