Molecular and Cellular Biology Module

Molecular and Cellular Biology Core Module – Project Summary The main objectives of the Vision Research Core are to enhance the productivity and efficiency of the research programs of the UW vision scientists and to facilitate collaboration among investigators. The Molecular and Cellular Biology Module enhances productivity and efficiency by providing access to shared equipment and facilities that are used daily by multiple labs. This enhances efficiency by avoiding unnecessary duplication of expensive equipment and enhances the capabilities of individual labs by providing access to expensive equipment that would be beyond the resources of the individual labs. Shared instruments include Sanger DNA sequencing, quantitative real-time PCR, gel documentation systems, MilliQ water purification system, ultracentrifuges, a variety of tabletop centrifuges, shakers for bacterial cultures, a spectrophotometer and a cell culture facility. In addition to providing access to equipment and facilities, the core also maintains the equipment in good working order. Core Module staff provide technical expertise in the use of the module’s equipment, and in a variety of molecular and cellular biology methods. Interactions among investigators using the shared resources available in this module stimulates collaboration.