The National Center for In-situ Tomographic Ultramicroscopy (NCITU)

NIH RePORTER · NIH · U24 · $246,610 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

Summary We propose to establish the National Center for In-situ Tomographic Ultramicroscopy (NCITU) to be based at the Simons Electron Microscopy Center (SEMC), which is a part of the New York Structural Biology Center (NYSBC), based in New York, NY. NCITU is dedicated to developing and providing access to both standard and advanced methods for in-situ cryoET specimen preparation, and to disseminating this expertise through a cryoET cross-training program designed to serve a wide variety of skill levels and career goals. The primary goal of the National Center for In-situ Tomographic Ultramicroscopy (NCITU) is to provide user access and service towards preparing specimen for direct visualization of macromolecular associations and organization, particularly in native cells. A highly qualified technical team provides direct hands-on service, guidance, and assistance to ensure that samples and grids are prepared with the highest quality and in the shortest time possible. An already well established cross-training program is being expanded and extended to provide training in every aspect of the cryoET specimen preparation pipeline. This is a request for supplemental funding for the National Center for In-situ Tomographic Ultramicroscopy (NCITU) to enhance the quality and throughput of the TFS Aquilos 2 cryo-FIB-SEM. This is a specific request for (i) a high-vacuum sample transfer rod, (ii) an in-chamber water vapor reduction upgrade, and (iii) a liquid nitrogen cooling longevity upgrade.

Key facts

NIH application ID
10397367
Project number
3U24GM139171-02S1
Recipient
NEW YORK STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY CENTER
Principal Investigator
BRIDGET Olivia CARRAGHER
Activity code
U24
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2021
Award amount
$246,610
Award type
3
Project period
2020-09-15 → 2024-08-31