Ultracentrifugation Facility

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High-speed ultracentrifugation is essential for diverse areas of modern chemical research. This multi-purpose instrument is required by many labs in our department, particularly those working in the areas of biological and materials chemistry. For example, ultracentrifugation is essential for the isolation and characterization of membrane proteins, as well as for reconstitution of these multiprotein complexes into artificial membrane systems, which is necessary to investigate the functions and mechanisms of action of these critical biological molecules. Similarly, the ability to process samples in a high-speed centrifuge is critical for the purification and characterization of new nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles for sensitive, multiplexed biomarker detection. ******The equipment requested delivers the high-speed centrifugation required, and supports membrane isolation, cellular fractionation, nanoparticle purification and analysis, as well as separation of subcellular particles and macromolecules, highlighting its central position as core infrastructure for our research programs. We currently do not have such capabilities.******Combined, in the groups of the applicants we are currently mentoring 35 students and post-doctoral fellows, and all of these trainees will be trained on and have access to this key piece of infrastructure. In addition, this equipment will be located in a departmental facility, so all trainees in the department will have access to training and operation of this infrastructure. This type of instrument is commonly used in the biotechnology, materials science, and pharmaceutical industries, so hands-on training and method development is beneficial to trainees seeking future employment in these areas.  *****