Biomedical Science

The Bard Center for Electrochemistry maintains a unique user electrochemical research instrumentation facility, allowing researchers from the University of Texas and visitors access to instrumentation and expert help in electrochemical studies. In a single location, the facility makes available electrochemical instruments such as potentiostats, scanning electrochemical microscopes, impedance analyzers, optical profilers, etc., for studying intermediates on electrode surfaces and device test equipment

Services Offered

• Electrochemical analysis and testing
• Custom Electrochemical cell design
• Electrochemical data interpretation
• Training in Electrochemical techniques
• Advanced instrumentation for redox and reaction studies
• Access to high-precision Electrochemical measurement systems

The Biological Mass Spectrometry Facility is the primary unit providing advanced mass spectrometry services for proteomics and protein modification analyses and protein molecular weight determination at the University. Equipped with state-of-the-art Thermo Orbitrap Ascend and Fusion mass spectrometers, the facility supports both quantitative and qualitative studies. In addition, a Bruker Autoflex self-service instrument is available for researchers to use MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry, and untargeted metabolomics experiments are conducted on a Thermo QExactive mass spectrometer. The facility staff offer expertise and guidance, ensuring researchers have access to the tools and support needed for cutting-edge biological research.

Services Offered

• Proteomics and protein modification analysis
• Protein molecular weight determination
• Quantitative and qualitative mass spectrometry
• Access to Thermo Orbitrap Ascent and Fusion instruments
• Self-service biomolecule mass spectrometry using MALDI-TOF
• Untargeted metabolomics with high resolution QExactive
• Consultation and collaboration on experimental design and data analysis for mass spectrometry projects

The Center for Biomedical Research Support (CBRS) is the administrative unit dedicated to advancing biomedical research by providing cutting-edge technologies and expert guidance tailored to the diverse needs of researchers. The center offers high-resolution light and electron microscopy, precise cell-sorting techniques, complex sequencing projects, mass spectrometry analyses, and customized transgenic mouse models. CBRS staff deliver personalized training and support to ensure research success. Additionally, the STEM Stockroom and freezer supply core provide a wide range of laboratory supplies, while our computing infrastructure and bioinformatics consultants assist in extracting insights from data. CBRS serves as a vital resource for researchers seeking to drive progress in biomedical science.

Services Offered

• High-resolution light and electron microscopy
• Advanced cell sorting and flow cytometry
• Mass spectrometry and proteomics
• Genomic and bioinformatics support
• Training and consultation for lab techniques

The i4Health Center at UT Austin focuses on transforming healthcare through innovative research and education in informatics, analytics, and technology. The center promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty, students, and industry partners to develop solutions for improving health outcomes. i4Health engages in various initiatives, including data-driven research, educational programs, and outreach activities, aiming to enhance healthcare delivery and patient engagement.

Services Offered

• Research and development for healthcare solutions
• Health informatics and data analytics
• Clinical trials and translational research support
• Partnerships with healthcare providers and industry
• Training in health-focused innovation and technology

The Multiphoton/Confocal Microscope is a state-of-the-art, high-resolution imaging system designed for multi-platform applications. This advanced microscope is particularly well-suited for the bioscience and biomedical engineering fields, enabling high-speed, high-resolution image capture in various modes without disturbing the sample. Its versatility and precision make it an invaluable tool for researchers conducting detailed studies in dynamic biological environments.

Services Offered

• High-resolution 2-photon and confocal microscopy
• Imaging of live cells and tissues
• Multi-modal fluorescence capabilities
• Support for biomedical and life sciences research

The Mass Spectrometry Imaging Facility at UT Austin enables high-resolution molecular imaging for biomedical research, using Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI) techniques to map biomolecules in tissues. With capabilities in Histology-Guided Mass Spectrometry (HGMS) and biofluid profiling, the facility supports research in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and more. Staff provide specialized imaging, data analysis, and training, advancing insights in cellular and molecular pathology.

Services Offered

• High-resolution mass spectrometry for chemical and biological samples
• Quantitative and qualitative analysis
• Proteomics and metabolomics studies
• Method development for custom mass spectrometry applications
• Data interpretation and consultation

The Genomic Sequencing and Analysis Facility (GSAF) offers next generation sequencing (NGS) services focusing on short read sequencing platform ranging from whole genome sequencing to single cell application. The facility provides the community with technical expertise and experience to support ongoing research projects.

Services Offered

• High-throughput DNA and RNA sequencing
• Sanger sequencing for longer DNA reads
• Quality control and data validation
• Bioinformatics support for data analysis
• Consultation on experimental design for genomics research
• Access to sequencing instrumentation and software

The Targeted Therapeutic Drug Discovery & Development Program (TTP) is the administrative unit responsible for providing access to advanced technologies and expertise that facilitate the translation of research into new cancer treatments. The program focuses on supporting cancer scientists and clinicians through an integrated approach to targeted molecular drug discovery, bringing together key disciplines to achieve their research goals within a unified platform. TTP staff collaborate closely with investigators, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed for successful therapeutic development

Services Offered

• Drug discovery and development support for cancer therapies
• Screening and validation of therapeutic targets
• Collaboration with cancer researchers and clinicians
• Translational research to bring therapies to clinical trials

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

The Sauer Structural Biology Laboratory is a state-of-the-art cryo-EM facility that houses a TFS Titan Krios and a TFS Glacios. The Krios is equipped with a Gatan BioContinuum imaging filter and K3 direct electron detector, enabling its use for high-resolution single-particle and tomographic imaging of macromolecular machines. The TFS Glacios is equipped with a TFS Falcon IV direct electron detector for high-resolution single-particle imaging and a TFS CETA-D camera for high-resolution micro -ED data. The facility also houses the equipment required for high-resolution structure determination of thin vitrified samples.

Services Offered

• Cryo-electron microscopy for macromolecular imaging
• High-resolution structure determination
• Sample preparation for cryo-EM
• Data analysis and visualization for structural biology research