Comparative Medicine Branch
Much of the current research into the understanding and treatment of allergies and infectious diseases requires the use of laboratory animals. It is the responsibility of the Comparative Medicine Branch (CMB) to provide daily care to animals maintained within NIAID animal facilities (other than those located at the Rocky Mountain Laboratories), to assist the NIAID Animal Care and Use Committee with the oversight of the NIAID program of animal care and use to include: intramural contracts, interagency, and intra-agency agreements involving animals. It is the responsibility of the CMB to assist NIAID scientists with animal-related issues, to oversee construction and renovation projects involving animal facilities, and to assist the DIR director with the planning for future animal related requirements.
Research Technologies Branch
The Research Technologies Branch offers investigators specialized support for advanced biotechnology research. The branch provides access to state-of-the-art research technologies, scientific expertise, and technical support to enhance the research efforts of all NIAID intramural investigators.
Flow Cytometry Unit
The Flow Cytrometry Unit currently provides support only for Rocky Mountain Laboratories researchers. We can help with experiment design, data analysis and data interpretation involving your cell sorting or multi-parameter experiment.
Genomics Core Facility
The Genomics Core Facility provides 1) standard and custom DNA sequencing from single clones to genomes; 2) support for custom Affymetrix and spotted microarrays; 3) high throughput SNP and TaqMan (Q-RtPCR) analysis; 4) robotics for genotyping and microsatellite services; 5) advanced bioinformatics for all of the above. The goal of the GCF is to support advanced technologies and provide high quality service in a timely manner to all NIAID researchers.
Microscopy Unit
The Microscopy Unit provides state-of-the-art service and equipment for all NIAID researchers. The facility provides sample preparation and analysis ranging from basic ultrastructural studies to immuno-localization of selected antigens. A variety of methods, protocols, and equipment are available to accommodate different needs. Real-time viewing of samples by video image-sharing is available to NIAID users.