MRI - Acquisition of a Spectral Imaging Confocal Microscope to Serve as a Regional Facility for Research and Education

James Madison University, Harrisonburg VA

Investigators

Abstract

An award has been made to James Madison University under the direction of Dr. Mark L. Gabriele for the acquisition of a spectral imaging confocal microscope to serve as a regional facility for research and education. The new microscope will provide enhanced imaging of biological specimens for research on a wide range of subjects. Investigators will use the confocal microscope to study development of auditory hair cells, and cellular processes in plants and animals. The microscope will be utilized by undergraduate students in research program during the academic year and summer. Upper division undergraduate courses will also use the microscope. The university will host a users day in the fall to train potential users and foster interdisciplinary projects. The new instrument will be the only one of its kind in the Shenandoah Valley, and four regional colleges in addition to James Madison University will be able to use the microscope in their education and research programs.