There are a number of advantages to having the Nikon Imaging Center at FSM. “First and foremost, we will have access to state of the art imaging technology,” says Teng-Leong Chew, PhD, Director of the Cell Imaging Facility.  “The Nikon Imaging Center greatly maximizes our ability to stay in the forefront of imaging technology by making  their latest instruments available. Notably, this greatly reduces the expenditure for the Feinberg School since we are able to use these instruments virtually cost free. This equipment will be updated often, as Nikon continually introduces new advancements in imaging technology. So, instead of upgrading equipment every five years, for example, we will have access to new microscopes at a much higher frequency.  Moreover, because Nikon seeks our input about applications, we cultivate a productive reciprocal relationship. We were chosen not only for our track record of highly successful collaborative partnership, but more importantly because of the foremost microscopy expertise at the Feinberg School and the strategic role of the Cell Imaging Facility as the convergent point of imaging needs of the entire institution. We provide critical feedback and suggestions, and they will use this information in developing and fine-tuning their new scopes.”  Dr. Chew adds that another key advantage for FSM is Nikon’s commitment to sponsor microscopy workshops at the Feinberg School, since numerous microscopes are needed to run such courses successfully.

“We are very excited about this latest advancement in our efforts to provide top-flight imaging capabilities to our researchers,” Dr. Chew says. “This could not have been accomplished without Dr. Vladimir Gelfand acting as a key liaison and the strong support from the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and the Feinberg School of Medicine.” The new Nikon Imaging Facility will host a grand opening ceremony on Wednesday, June 4, at 11:30 am. An open house will follow.