# Collaborative Research: Database and toolbox for characterization of subcellular components in cellular cryo-electron tomograms

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Carnegie Mellon University (PA) · $225,000

## Abstract

Awards are made to Carnegie Mellon University and Purdue University to enable the development of a cyberinfrastructure that supports the analysis of cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) data. Cryo-ET is a cutting-edge imaging technology for revealing the structures and spatial organizations of subcellular components, in particular, macromolecular complexes, inside cells. This project will build an open-access, annotated database of cryo-ET images—both simulated and experimentally obtained—alongside a robust toolbox of computational methods for their analysis. The resulting resources will lower the entry barrier for new researchers, promote collaboration, and accelerate scientific discoveries across the life sciences. Educational outreach includes training Ph.D., graduate, and undergraduate students through interdisciplinary coursework, hands-on research, and workshops at both institutions. Workshops will also be held for the broader research community, including educators and students at the high school level. Beyond biology, the tools developed will support innovations in medical imaging, and materials science, ultimately contributing to workforce development in data-driven scientific fields.

The intellectual merit of this project lies in establishing a foundational infrastructure for cryo-ET data analysis that addresses a critical gap in the field: the lack of well-curated, annotated datasets and standardized computational tools. By developing realistic simulated datasets,

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2422619
- **Awardee organization:** Carnegie Mellon University (PA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** U3NKNFLNQ613
- **PI:** Min Xu
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** CYBERINFRASTRUCTURE/SCIENCE
- **Estimated total:** $225,000
- **Funds obligated:** $225,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 08/15/2025 → 07/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2422619

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2422619, Collaborative Research: Database and toolbox for characterization of subcellular components in cellular cryo-electron tomograms. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2422619. Licensed CC0.

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