Tools for molecular physiology research

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This RTI application is for a suite of inter-related tools essential for conducting molecular physiology research at Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, a world-renowned marine research station on the West Coast of Vancouver Island BC. Our collective research is focused on understanding the evolutionary relationships in physiological systems. Our research contributes to the protection and preservation of ecosystems in oceans and seas by focusing on both fundamental molecular physiology and investigation of the effect of human-induced damage to fishes. The nature of this research requires continual access to natural populations of aquatic organisms in these marine environments. The remote nature of our research sites in association with the growing field of genomics necessitates a molecular suite be established at Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. This will provides the necessary tools to integrate genomics into our molecular physiology programs. We are requesting funds to purchase a molecular suite for research at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre in support of our research programs in molecular physiology. This request includes a new liquid scintillation counter necessary for conducting radiotracer-based experiments to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ion transport in marine fishes, a new ultra-low temperature freezer (-80 °C) s required for safe storage and preservation of biological samples, and both a nanodrop spectrophotometer and robust PCR machine that will allow for immediate isolation of RNA and cDNA synthesis for subsequent analysis of gene expression. Each piece of equipment forms part of an interrelated group of equipment that will support multiple NSERC-funded research programs thereby allowing each of the co-applicants plus numerous other NSERC and non-NSERC funded researchers who routinely use BMSC as part of their research to continue advancing research and providing outstanding mentoring of HQP at Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (BMSC).