Scintillation counter

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In this application, we request funds to purchase a scintillation counter. Radioisotopes are vital research tools in most fields of biology. Likewise, a scintillation counter is a necessity in any department where isotopes are used. In the Biology Department at Queen's University, more than 15 faculty members possess radioisotope licences and use isotopes for some element of their program. Until recently, the department had two ancient scintillation counters. However two years ago, the oldest (~25 years old) became inoperable. This year, the youngest (~15 years old) also failed and cannot be repaired. Thus, at present we have no functional scintillation counter. This equipment request, submitted by five NSERC funded researchers and supported by a suite of minor users, will allow us to purchase a new instrument to meet the immediate needs for our research programs, including swipe tests, DNA sequencing, northern and Southern blots, protein structure-function, metabolism, and transporter kinetics. The requested equipment would also allow our students and postdoctoral fellows (HQP) to gain expertise in radioisotope usage, an important area that is highly relevant to many research and career opportunities in this 'post-genome' era.