StAR PROPOSAL Transition to Nano

Transcription

1 StAR PROPOSAL Transition to Nano Title Page General Proposal Information A. Proposal Title: Transition to Nano: Acquisition of a UV/Vis Spectrophotometer B. Point Person and Contact Information: Nancy Bachman, 322 Science 1, x3061 [email protected] C. Department(s)/Unit(s): Biology Department D. Amount Requested: $9,900 Proposal Summary We propose to obtain a replacement UV/visible spectrophotometer with dual capabilities for measuring samples in standard and nanoscale format. This equipment will be used by our Biology major core course in Genetics (BIOL 212), in student research projects (BIOL 299 and 399), in faculty research, and in general lab preparation and support. We currently have a standard UV/Vis spectrophotometer (Milton Roy Model 601), obtained in the 1990s, which is out of order, and may not be repairable. Acquisition of this instrument will enable us to mostly dedicate an instrument to applications in the BIOL 212 Genetics laboratory.

2 Proposal Section I Narrative A. Proposal significance and objectives. The goal of this proposal is to acquire a replacement for an ailing spectrophotometer currently used for faculty and student research, and for general lab preparation in Biology. Rather than replace the unit with a standard spectrophotometer, we propose to obtain a dual system that adds capability for measuring small volumes (1-5 microliters). Possible purchase options include a ThermoFisher Nanodrop (ND-2000c) at $11,300 or an IMPLEN Nanophotometer P-Class at $9,900. This spectrophotometer would assist in accomplishing course objectives in BIOL 212, particularly in training students in new genetic technologies. Currently 3-4 sections of BIOL 212 (a core lecture/laboratory course in Biology) are being offered annually, for a total of students. This instrument will be used in BIOL 212 for a 5-week project lab on DNA technologies to quantitate DNA samples for polymerase chain reaction. As students finish their DNA isolation procedure in week 2, they will each utilize this instrument to determine the concentration of their DNA solution, so they can plan subsequent experiments for weeks 3 and 4. Students will gain experimental skills in this lab with isolating DNA, quantitating DNA, preparing dilutions, setting up in vitro DNA reactions (PCR and restriction digests), and with agarose gel electrophoresis for DNA fragment size analysis. B. Contribution to the SP2010: This proposal will focus on item (1) teaching, learning, and scholarship of the 2010 Strategic Plan. We propose to add an essential equipment item needed for quantitating samples, preparing and adjusting stock solutions, and for small scale (1-10 tube) assays. Currently faculty comprise the main users of this equipment; this proposal will facilitate more student use of the equipment in the context of a core Biology course. C. Linkage to any of the following priorities: This proposal addresses the priorities of improving experiential learning opportunities for students and supporting efforts to maintain academic quality and rigor. Currently it is logistically difficult to quantify DNA concentration in the BIOL 212 teaching laboratory; students have typically needed to use an instrument in the research lab or the instructor has had to carry out the procedure on behalf of the students. D. Impact on operational efficiency and effectiveness. This proposal would positively impact efficiency and effectiveness. Currently we are accommodating a large number of students in genetics laboratory sections. Acquiring a spectrophotometer that could be mainly installed in the teaching laboratory (room 302) will enable the instructor to better prepare and organize laboratory components and give students students a better training experience. It will also reduce the need for weekly equipment movement and associated wear and tear. E. Opportunity for collaboration. The instrument is reasonably small in profile and can potentially be used for projects pertaining to teaching or research in Biology or in collaboration with faculty in Chemistry.

3 F. If applicable, description of how your unit's assessment process contributed to the decision to submit this request. Does not apply. G. How the activity will be assessed, using measurable, documented outcomes. BIOL 212 students will be given a worksheet introducing them to DNA quantitation methods and use of the spectrophotometer. Students will then use the instrument for the measurements and for preparing dilutions to use in the next procedure. The following week in lab, a survey will be administered to assess student s familiarity with the instrumentation and with calculations relevant to the instrument readings. H. Implementation strategy and timeline. In phase 1, our goal is to acquire the spectrophotometer and install the operating software on an available PC. This would occur in the summer In phase 2, we will gain experience with the unit for different applications in the research laboratory (room 3) over the summer months. In phase 3, we will relocate this instrument to room 302 for use during the academic year in the BIOL 212 lab and provide abbreviated instruction sheets, so the instrument can be used by students. Laboratory curricula and assessment documents for the DNA quantification procedure will be revised to be better suited to students engaged in using the instrumentation. I. Additional information, if necessary. Not applicable. Section II Funding Request B. See attached StAR Budget Template; IMPLEN Nanophotometer P-Class at $9,900 Section III Consultation

4 StAR Appendix A The Chief Information Officer has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs as it relates to technology: The Associate Vice President for Facilities has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs as it relates to facilities: The Budget Director has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs: The Senior Executive Employee Services Officer has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs as it relates to human resources: [ ] No t Applicable Other consultation (be specific):

5 FY12/13 StAR Proposal Budget Template Proposal Title: Transition to Nano: Acquisition of a UV/Vis Spectrophotometer Point Person and contact information Name: Nancy Bachman Campus Phone: Campus e mail: [email protected] Department/Unit: Biology Budget Detail please enter whole dollars; enter fractions of positions in decimals (e.g. 1/2 time = 0.50) Number of Recurring 1 time Costs by year Total 1 time Use of Funds Description Positions (ongoing) FY FY FY Costs Personnel Costs: Ongoing Salaries (PSR) $0 Temporary Salaries (Temp Service) $0 Student Employment (Student Temp Service) $0 Other Than Personnel Costs (OTPS) and Campus Recharges: Materials & Supplies $0 Travel (not related to Professional Development) $0 Contractual Services $0 Professional Development $0 General Equipment IMPLEN Nanophotometer P Class at $9,900 $9,900 $9,900 Contracts related to Equipment Maintenance $0 Campus Storehouse $0 Campus Telephone $0 Campus Mail $0 Campus Print Shop $0 Capital Costs renovation $0 Capital Costs new construction $0 Total Costs: 0.00 $0 $9,900 $0 $0 $9,900 Other Funding Sources: New Funds (i.e. projected revenue generation) Savings Reallocation of funds from existing resources (include account number, funding source) Projected Amount Available: Total Projected Other Funding Sources: $0