Molecular Biology, Microscopy and Pilot Labs

783 ERC – Molecular Biology Lab: Activities include extraction of DNA and RNA; fluorescence in situ hybridizations; radio-labeled hybridizations including Northern, Southern, and Western blots; polymerase chain reaction; agarose and acrylamide gel electrophoresis; colorometric assays for chemical species (e.g., Hach tests). Equipment includes Perkin Elmer thermocycler; Eppendorf microcentrifuge; Bead Beater for DNA/RNA extraction; UV/Vis spec; FisherBrand rotating hybridization oven; Lauda hot water baths; Sears brand –20oC freezer; Walmart Brand 4oC minifridge.

784 ERC – Microscopy Lab: Activities include visualizing microorganisms on microscope slides and in various specimens and documenting results using digital imaging. Equipment includes Nikon E-600 upright epifluorescence microscope; Nikon TE-2000 inverted epifluorescence microscope; Spot black and white CCD camera; ICT personal computer; Macintosh computer; Kodak gel documentation system.

787 ERC – Pilot Lab: Activities include storing samples for analysis; operating lab-scale bioreactors to simulate wastewater treatment plants; culturing microorganisms. Equipment includes 18-custom designed bioreactors with pumps, timers, and reaction vessels; heated shaker table; two ambient temperature shaker tables; Walmart Brand 4oC midifridge; Sears brand fridge/freezer combo; Fisherbrand upright BOD incubator; Ultralow temperature freezer for –80oC sample storage.

Special License:
783 and 784 are licensed for use of radioactive materials including 14C, 32P, 33P, 35S

783, 784, and 787 are licensed for biosafety level one (BSL1) routine work with microorganisms and recombinant DNA