National Resource for Advanced NMR Technology

A major part of the scientific program of the parent project (1RM1GM148766) is based on one of the most successful Magic Angle Spinning Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (MAS-DNP) instruments worldwide. This cutting-edge instrument continues to drive breakthrough discoveries in the studies of a wide array of biological systems, chemical compounds, and advanced materials. The instrument consists of five critical components: an NMR console, NMR probes, a microwave source, cooling cabinet, and an NMR magnet. Crucially, this instrument requires a continuous supply of cold nitrogen gas to operate at its nominal temperature of ~100 K. The generation of cold gas is enabled by a sophisticated heat-exchanger and temperature-flow regulation system (hereafter "cooling-cabinet") that has been in operation for approximately 10 years and is now reaching the end of its functional lifespan. To provide optimal support and maintain the instrument's world-class capabilities, we have proactively upgraded multiple components: we have leveraged institutional funding to replace the NMR console and the microwave source, while the parent project funds development of advanced probe technology. The current cooling cabinet, however, is no longer supported by Bruker and is incompatible with the new console, creating an urgent technical bottleneck that threatens the continued operation of the entire system. The acquisition of a new cooling cabinet is not merely beneficial but essential to maintain the productivity of this instrument and ensure seamless integration with the modern console. Without this critical upgrade, the instrument's reliability and performance will inevitably degrade, jeopardizing ongoing research projects for dozens of users and greatly reducing our ability to accomplish many of the specific aims of the parent proposal. This targeted investment will secure another decade of reliable operation for this high-demand research platform that serves 20-30 unique users annually.