Philosophy and Services Overview

Philosophy

Our services are built around three main themes:

  1. Access to well-maintained instrumentation for the characterization of single cells. Instrumentation includes flow cytometer cell analyzers, cell sorters, imaging cytometry, and 10x Genomics. Users have the option of either assisted use or independent use of any instrument in the core. Users who have been trained for self-use can access the core facility on a 24/7 basis.
  2. Education for instrument operation and experimental and technical competence. We have developed a comprehensive training program for all instruments. We have also developed a multi-session flow cytometry theoretical and practical course to equip users with the skills to consistently generate robust and replicable data. We also provide access to a variety of educational and technical materials to support research performed in the core facility. 
  3. Support for experimental design, data analysis, and troubleshooting. We assist users during each step of the experimental process. We believe the role that core facilities play in research should be of a collaborative nature. Core facilities do more than simply provide access to machines, and to this end, we strive to cultivate collaborative relationships with each and every user.

We aim for quality, consistency and robustness of the work performed in our facility, and we make all efforts to ensure the success of each flow cytometry experiment.

Our model emphasizes independent access to both cell sorter and cell analyzer technology. To this end, we provide comprehensive training and support for researchers who pursue this mode of instrument usage. Training consists of both classroom-based and on-instrument training. Core staff is always physically present in the facility space, so guidance is at-hand when needed.

During staffed hours, from 9AM-6PM, Monday-Friday, instruments are set up and quality control checked by the CSCI Flow Cytometry team. Researchers who wish to utilize the instruments outside of staffed hours (weekends or holidays) are responsible for instrument setup, which is covered in depth during instrument training.

For users who do not plan on using the cell analyzers or sorters extensively, we also offer assisted instrument sessions during staffed hours.

Services Overview

  • Access to state-of-the-art flow cytometry, cell sorting, and image cytometry instrumentation, including spectral flow cytometry and spectral cell sorting
  • Access to 10x Genomics Next GEM technology for single-cell genomics
  • Comprehensive training, including both classroom-based and on-instrument portions
  • Self-service cell sorting
  • Operator-assisted cell analysis and sorting
  • Technical assistance and experimental support, including  panel design and data analysis
  • Access to qPCR, cell counting, and basic imaging

We offer flow cytometry services held to the highest standards of rigor and reproducibility and are experienced working with a diverse range of cell and tissues types.

Each sort performed in CSCI Flow Cytometry is configured to ensure the highest purity, recovery, and viability possible, and instrument setup is tailored to each unique cell type. Our active engagement in users’ experiments allows us to ensure the highest chance of success of each experiment.