Research Core Facility Directory

The Mass Spectrometry Imaging Facility at UT Austin provides cutting-edge tools for spatially resolved chemical analysis of biological and material samples. Using advanced mass spectrometry techniques, the facility enables high-resolution molecular imaging for applications in biomolecular research, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. Services include sample preparation, data acquisition, and interpretation of spatial distributions of biomolecules, metabolites, and other compounds. The facility offers expert guidance and collaboration opportunities to support researchers in gaining detailed chemical insights at the microscale.

Services Offered

• Imaging mass spectrometry for spatial analysis of samples
• Chemical mapping of biological and material specimens
• High-resolution molecular imaging
• Support for research in biomolecular and tissue analysis
• Data analysis and visualization services

Services Offered

• Characterization of materials via spectroscopy
• Access to X-ray diffraction, Raman, and infrared spectroscopy
• Thermal and mechanical analysis of materials
• Consultation on material selection and characterization techniques

The MRC is the administrative unit responsible for providing access to advanced nano-fabrication equipment for users from various fields, including electronics, optics, physics, chemistry, and engineering disciplines. It serves both university and corporate researchers, offering not only state-of-the-art clean room facilities but also a collaborative environment. MRC staff provide guidance and support to lab users, fostering a community of scientists who work together to advance technology and knowledge.

Services Offered

• Nanofabrication and microfabrication facilities
• Semiconductor device prototyping
• Cleanroom access and support
• Training in photolithography, etching, and thin-film deposition
• Collaborative research in electronics and materials science

Services Offered

• Experimental setups for fluid flow in porous media
• Modeling of reservoir and aquifer processes
• Visualization of micro-scale fluid behaviors
• Research support for oil, gas, and environmental studies

The Microscopy & Flow Cytometry Facility is the unit responsible for providing access to advanced light microscopes, flow cytometers, and cell sorters for research and teaching at the University. The facility supports users from all disciplines, offering both standard and high-end instrumentation. In addition to assisted use, the facility provides training on equipment and consultations to help researchers optimize their use of the available tools. Staff scientists work closely with investigators, ensuring access to the expertise and resources needed for cutting-edge imaging research.

Services Offered

• Light microscopy
• Confocal and fluorescence microscopy
• Flow cytometry
• Cell sorting
• Analysis workstations
• Training in microscopy and flow cytometry techniques
• Consultation on experimental design for microscopy and flow cytometry studies

The Mouse Genetic Engineering Facility (MGEF) provides expert advice and custom services to generate, cryopreserve, and rederive genetically engineered mice for understanding mammalian gene function and human disease. The MGEF serves as a central hub for mouse genetics at UT by providing precision mouse models and transgenic services, engaging in teaching, training, and collaborative projects, and undertaking research that supports the core’s mission. The facility is a key resource for researchers across various disciplines, including those studying alcohol addiction, neurodegeneration, immunology, cancer, and developmental disorders.

Services Offered

• Design and generation of precision mouse models
• Cryopreservation of mouse lines
• Cryorecovery of mouse models from repositories
• Embryo manipulation for -omic studies

The Nanoscale Force Spectroscopy Laboratory is dedicated to investigating nanoscale features using advanced force spectroscopy tools. The primary focus is on understanding the force fields of fluid molecules and nanoparticles, as well as the pore walls in geological environments, including saline aquifers and unconventional shale gas reservoirs. The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, including an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), a Zeiss Light Microscope with a high-frequency capture camera, an ultraviolet (UV) particle analyzer, a packed column transport setup, and computational facilities. This comprehensive array of tools supports cutting-edge research in nanoscience and geoscience.

Services Offered

• Nanoscale analysis of geological materials
• Atomic force microscopy for surface characterization
• Research on fluid and mineral interactions
• Consultation for nanoscience and geoscience studies

The NASCENT Center at UT Austin is an NSF-funded Nanosystems Engineering Research Center focused on advancing scalable nanomanufacturing technologies. By developing high-throughput manufacturing systems, materials, and metrology, NASCENT addresses the practical challenges of creating next-generation mobile computing and energy devices. The center collaborates with academic and industry partners, translating nanoscience innovations into scalable, real-world applications in healthcare, energy, and electronics. Through transformative research and educational programs, NASCENT is training future leaders and enabling industrial impact in nanotechnology.

Services Offered

• Research in scalable nanomanufacturing processes
• Access to nanoscale fabrication tools
• Testing of nano-enabled devices
• Collaboration with industry for technology transfer and commercialization
• Training in nanomanufacturing techniques

Services Offered

• Vibrating sample magnetometry for nanoscale materials
• Analysis of magnetic properties
• Sample preparation for magnetometry
• Consultation on experimental design for magnetic studies

The UT Austin Bureau of Economic Geology’s Near Surface Observatory features LiDAR and hyperspectral data analysis for environmental monitoring and geological research. The observatory's advanced imaging helps capture and analyze surface-level environmental features, supporting studies in fields such as geology, environmental science, and resource management. This program enhances the understanding of Texas’s diverse terrains and provides actionable data for sustainable management and hazard assessment.

Services Offered

• High-resolution LIDAR mapping for surface studies
• Geospatial data collection and processing
• Terrain and vegetation analysis
• Support for geological and environmental research

Services Offered

• Large-scale structural testing for natural hazards
• Wind, earthquake, and wave simulation
• Data collection and analysis for structural resilience
• Collaboration for engineering and safety research

Services Offered

• Noble gas isotope analysis for geological samples
• (U-Th)/He dating for thermochronology
• Sample preparation and analysis
• Support for geochronology and tectonic studies

The Nuclear Engineering Teaching Laboratory is an innovative facility with unique capabilities. Services provided by the NETL are available to researchers and clients both within and outside The University of Texas at Austin including international clients. Services include education and training, nuclear and radiation related research, nuclear analytical services, radioisotope production, and specialized technical services. With the varied areas of specialty of NETL staff, NETL welcomes all nuclear and radiation related inquiries.

Services Offered

• NETL research areas are typically related to nuclear forensics but also include robotics applications along with other areas.
• Trace element analysis using neutron activation analysis and prompt gamma activation analysis. Measuring distribution of elements in material using neutron depth profiling. Imaging materials with neutron radiography.
• The NETL can produce a variety of radioisotopes for use in research, nuclear medicine, and industrial processes.
• The NETL staff have a variety of areas of specialty to aid in design and development of experiments, processes, and products.

The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Facility at UT Austin provides researchers with high-resolution spectroscopic capabilities for structural analysis of organic, inorganic, and biomolecular compounds. Equipped with a range of state-of-the-art NMR spectrometers, the facility supports applications in chemistry, materials science, and pharmaceutical research. Services include routine and advanced NMR experiments, data interpretation, and user training. The facility also offers expert consultation for customized experimental setups, ensuring researchers have the tools and expertise needed for detailed molecular characterization.

Services Offered

• High-resolution NMR spectroscopy
• Analysis of molecular structure and dynamics
• Customizable NMR experimental setups
• Training in NMR data interpretation and experimental design

The Nuclear and Radiation Engineering Program at UT Austin advances nuclear science through research and education, with a focus on radiation effects, radioisotope production, and environmental applications. Based in the Nuclear Engineering Teaching Lab, the program provides hands-on experience with a TRIGA reactor and advanced nuclear facilities. Services include Neutron Activation Analysis, Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis for element concentration mapping, Neutron Radiography, and sample irradiations. The program prepares students for impactful careers in nuclear technology and promotes public understanding through outreach and tours.

Services Offered

• Access to nuclear reactor for research and education
• Neutron activation analysis
• Radiotracer studies and isotope production
• Training and safety protocols for reactor use

Services Offered

• Analysis of organic compounds in geological samples
• Biomarker and isotopic analysis
• Method development for organic geochemistry
• Research support in environmental and petroleum geochemistry

The PEACE LAB (Plasma Elemental Analysis Core) at UT Austin’s Jackson School of Geosciences specializes in trace element analysis for a variety of liquid and solid samples. Utilizing inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and laser ablation (LA-ICP-MS) methods, the lab offers services for ultra-trace and isotopic analyses, supporting research in environmental science, geology, and biology. The lab provides educational courses and collaborative research opportunities, assisting users in precise elemental mapping and concentration studies.

Services Offered

• Plasma-based elemental analysis
• Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
• Trace metal detection and isotopic analysis
• Consultation on plasma elemental analysis techniques

The Physics Machine Shop provides essential assistance in the design, construction, and repair of scientific instruments utilized in the research efforts of the College of Natural Sciences departments. This center is dedicated to ensuring that researchers have access to reliable and efficient equipment, facilitating innovative research across various scientific disciplines.

Services Offered

• Custom design and fabrication of scientific instruments
• Repair and maintenance of research equipment
• Precision machining and prototyping
• Consultation on mechanical and instrument design

Services Offered

• Experimental studies on rock permeability and fluid flow
• Pore-scale imaging and analysis
• Research on reservoir quality and hydrocarbon recovery
• Collaboration on petroleum and geoscience research