Autoclave and multiport injector for removing experimental bottlenecks in microbial isotopic assays

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The RTI funding requested here will go to remove two experimental bottlenecks that are affecting our ability to efficiently and precisely run geologically directed microbial evolution experiments. Specifically, we are asking for support for a benchtop high-volume autoclave and a custom-built multiport injection system for mass spectrometric analyses. Both of these pieces of equipment will enable us to run isotopic assays of microbial fractionation experiments in ~50% of the time that it currently takes. The equipment supported under this RTI award will be part of a host of research projects, ranging from PhD-level experiments to short-term undergraduate research experiences. In particular, it will become a centerpiece in the McGill Stable Isotope Laboratory's training program for post-doctoral, graduate, and undergraduate trainees under the NSERC Collaborative Research and Training Experience Canadian Astrobiology Training Program.