Platform Technology Network


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Platform technologies listed according to institution

Austin Health

Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Laboratory

Bone and Micro Structure Imaging (Endocrine Centre of Excellence)

Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF)

Centre for Therapeutic Target Discovery

Australian Genome Research Facility Ltd (AGRF)

Australian Proteomics Computational Facility (APCF)

Bionic Ear Institute

Bio21 Institute

Electron Microscopy Technology

CSIRO

Bio21 Collaborative Crystallisation Centre (C3)

NCRIS Recombinant Protein Feeder Facility

Fragment Screening

Cancer Trials Australia

CTA Laboratory

Florey Nueroscience Institutes

Small Animal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Facility

Neuroscience Computational and Data Management Facility

Statistics and Informatics Platform (DS2)

Ludwig Institute and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research

Joint Proteomics Services Facility

Mental Health Research Institute

Victorian Brain Bank Network

Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University

Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics (D4)

Centre for Drug Candidate Optimisation (CDC0)

Murdoch Children's Research Institute

Confocal Microscope

Flow Cytometry

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Genome Resources Facility

Sequenom Platform Facility

National Neuroscience Facility and Neurosciences Victoria

Neuroscience Trials Australia (Austin Precinct)

Neuroproteomics and Neurogenomics

Cellular Physiology, Histology and Imaging (University of Melbourne)

Imaging (Brain Research Institute)

Integrative Neuroscience Facility (Florey Nueroscience Institutes)

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Bioinformatics Facility

Microscopy Core

Pathology

Victorian Centre for Functional Genomics

Molecular Genomics Core Facility

Flow Cytometry

Small Animal PET

St Vincent's Institute

Electrophysiology

X-ray Crystallography

Structure Based Drug Design

Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy

Dynamic Light Scattering

FACS Services

Mass Spectrometry

IVIS Spectrum

University of Melbourne

Electron Microscope Facility

Histology

Australian Phenomics Network, Histopathology and Organ Pathology Node

Victorian Cancer Biobank

Walter and Eliza Hall Institute

The Cytometry Facility

High Throughput Chemical Screening Facility

Medicinal Chemistry

Monoclonal Ab Facility

Austin Health

Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Laboratory (Austin Health)

The Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Laboratory, conducts the tailored development of customised tests for drugs in biological matrices for routine therapeutic drug monitoring and as support for clinical trials, pharmacokinetic studies and basic research. It also offers stability study capabilities for pharmaceutical preparations.

Methods used include high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS). The laboratory is NATA-accredited to AS 4633 (ISO 15189) in the field of medical testing; categories include ? ?drugs for therapeutic monitoring?, and ?biogenic amines?. Therapeutic drug monitoring services, research activities and clinical trial support have been provided for over 30 years and laboratory accreditation has been held since 1989. The laboratory is closely affiliated with the University of Melbourne Department of Medicine, Nucleus Network Clinical Trial Centre (Austin Campus) and the Austin Hospital Departments of Pharmacy and Pathology. Testing (NATA ISO15189 accredited) is currently offered for the following: Therapeutic drugs in plasma/serum (Mycophenolic acid, Perhexiline, Clozapine, Oxypurinol), Hormones/vasoactive agents (catecholamines - adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine in plasma and urine). Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LCMSMS) analytical capability will also commence in early 2010. The Clinical Pharmacology and Therapuetics Unit also contracts to the Therapeutic goods Administration (TGA) to evaluate regulatory submissions for new drugs.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Andrew Ellis
Phone: (03) 9496 3220
Email: andrew.ellis@austin.org.au
Website: http://www.austin.org.au/Page.aspx?ID=566
Email:

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Bone and microstructure imaging

This Facility contains Bone MiThis Facility contains Bone Mineral Densitometry (DXA) machines and two High Resolution MicroCT systems: 1. Scanco XtremeCT with resolution ≈82 microns has capacity to scan in-vivo human subjects with isotropic 3D reconstruction. System can also be used for large in-vitro specimens. 2. Scanco VivaCT 40 with resolution ≈10 microns is a small animal system with scan length 14.5cm. Both microCT scanners provide density parameters (volumetric), 3D microarchitectural indices and DICOM files for Finite Element Analysis.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Ali Ghasem Zadeh
Phone:
Email: alig@unimelb.edu.au
Website:
Email:

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Australian Cancer Research Foundation for Therapeutic Target Discovery

The Australian Cancer Research Foundation Centre for Therapeutic Target Discovery is a formally constituted, inter-institution collaboration designed to maximise shared resources (both human and material) for the purpose of conducting highly innovative cancer research. It resulted from growing recognition of the need for an integrated approach to cancer service delivery and basic, translational and clinical research. The consortium members include the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital (Melbourne Health), Royal Women's Hospital, the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research (Parkville campus), and the University of Melbourne. Facilities include flow cytometry, imaging, genome wide screening, molecular pathology, RNA interference libraries, "Humanised" Mouse Model systems and animal imaging.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Lina Laskos
Phone: (03) 9345 2304
Email: laskos@wehi.edu.au
Website: http://www.wehi.edu.au/ACRF_CTTD
Email: acrfcttd@wehi.edu.au

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Australian Genome Research Facility (AGRF)

Australian Genome Research Facility Ltd (AGRF) is Australia's largest provider of genomics services and solutions. AGRF has laboratories in Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide, each providing a gateway to a national network of state-of-the-art facilities, technology and expertise. From microbes to plants, animals and humans, AGRF provides a full range of services across the entire biological spectrum. They provide services to academia and industry with clients from bioscience, environmental science, biomedicine and agricultural biotechnology. The range of services is unique in Australia and recognised internationally. AGRF is accredited by NATA to the ISO/IEC17025:2005 Quality Standard.

Access: Fee for service
Node Manager: Stephen Wilcox
Phone:
Email: stephen.wilcox@agrf.org.au
Website: www.agrf.org.au
Email: agrf@agrf.org.au

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Australian Proteomics Computational Facility (APCF)

The Australian Proteomics Computational Facility has been established to provide a single advanced computing cluster accessible to scientists at proteomics centres all over the country. This integrated approach to proteomics computing and the sharing of databases will put Australia at the forefront of the world's efforts to identify the proteins associated with the early detection of our major diseases. It deals with proteomic data only. The core of the APCF computing facility is a 128-node Cluster Computer. This computer is physically located at the Ludwig Institute of Cancer Research, Parkville Campus. It is the only site in world that allows full and free access to proteomics algorithms without limitations. This facility is funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (grant number 381413), under the Enabling Grant scheme for providing support for a high quality, world-class computational research facility that will enhance the national health and medical research effort.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Eugene Kapp
Phone:
Email:
Website: http://www.apcf.edu.au/
Email: apcf@ludwig.ewdu.au

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BioGrid

BioGrid Australia is a secure platform and infrastructure that provides researchers access to data in many disease types and data from different existing databases at many institutions. It provides access while protecting both privacy and intellectual property. BioGrid Australia provides a flexible and secure method for interrogating the multiple data sources, where thousands of records of patient data is record-linked across all the databases and institutions. Only authorised researchers can access sub-sets of data, transform where required and test research questions using BioGrids or their own analytical tools.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Marienne Hibbert
Phone: +61 3 9342 7066
Email: marienne.hibbert@biogrid.org.au
Website: http://www.biogrid.org.au
Email: admin@biogrid.org.au

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Bionic Ear Institute

Sound Proof Booths

Sound proof booths used for psychophysical and speech perception tests. There is access to 3 booths.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Anne Coco
Phone: (03) 9288 2983
Email: acoco@bionicear.org
Website:
Email:

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Electrophysiology

This facility has the capacity to record evoked potentials, multi-unit activity (multiple neurons) and single-unit activity (single neurons) from peripheral nerves and the central nervous system (CNS) using a variety of techniques, including multichannel electrodes arrays. Researchers at the BEI have expertise in acute and chronic electrical stimulation of laboratory animals and determination of plastic changes in the CNS. There is considerable expertise in the auditory and visual fields.

Access: Research collaboration,
Manager: Anne Coco
Phone: (03) 9288 2983
Email: acoco@bionicear.org
Website:
Email:

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Bio21 Institute

Bio21 NMR Facility

Description Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy determines the structures of molecules ranging from small chemicals to macromolecular proteins and nucleic acids. It is particularly useful for the analysis of proteins that cannot be crystallised, and for investigating interactions between proteins, biological membranes and ligands, including potential new drugs. 400, 500, 600 and 800 MHz NMR are available.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: David Keizer
Phone: (03) 8344 2218
Email: dkeizer@unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://www.bio21.unimelb.edu.au/platform-technologies/nmr-facility
Email:

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Bio21 Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics. The RTF Lab.

DIY Mass Spec. This facility has five mass spectrometers and associated HPLC systems and bioinformatics infrastructure. While fee for service work is available, for a fixed (highly subsidised) yearly or quarterly fee we also offer unlimited* instrument access and training to users who wish to perform their own mass spectrometry experiments. The facility has two full time staff, each with over 15 years of protein mass spectrometry experience to assist users to extract maximum benefit from the instrumentation available. Primary structure analysis, disulfide arrangements, phosphorylation site analysis, iTRAQ etc are routinely performed. Instrumentation includes Agilent nanoCHIP LC XCT Plus ion trap, Agilent LC-esi-TOF, AB 4000QTrap, AB MALDI-QTOF, and AB nanoesi-QStar Elite. Three Agilent HPLC systems are also available for purification of samples. Edman Degradation (N-terminal protein sequencing) is also available. Bookings can be made here once users are registered: http://www.bio21.unimelb.edu.au/booking/select_resource.php?v=1

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Nicholas Williamson
Phone: (03) 8344 2206
Email: nawill@unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://www.bio21.org/platform-technologies/mass-spectrometry
Email:

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NAME

Overview

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager:
Phone:
Email:
Website:
Email:

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Electron Microscopy (Bio21 Institute)

The unit is equipped with 5 state of the art EMs and has an adjacent clean room. Equipment: FEI Quanta Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM); Philips XL-30 Scanning Electron Microscope; FEI Nova dual beam, focussed ion beam system; FEI Tecnai F30 Transmission electron microscope; FEI Tecnai F20 Transmission electron microscope.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Serge Rubanov
Phone: +61 3 8344 2449
Email: sergey@unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://www.bio21.unimelb.edu.au/platform-technologies/electron-microscopy
Email:

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CSIRO

Bio21 Collaborative Crystallisation Centre (C3)

The Bio21 C3 is a full service protein crystallisation centre specialising in both screening and optimisation. Our mission is to provide both expert and novice users access to technologies which will enable the rapid and efficient sampling of crystallisation space, in order to streamline the process of obtaining biological insights from structural studies. Our core consists of small volume (sub-microlitre) dispensing coupled with automatic imaging, but our strength lies in our ease of use, range of services and expert advice. All sample booking and all images are available via secure web applications We carry a large range (over 50) of commercial initial screens, as well as offering custom screen design and manufacture. We can provide high-throughput microseeding, along with additive screening or a combination of the two for optimisation of initial crystal hits We provide novel tools for screen selection, sample volume calculators and batchload wizards to demystify the process of protein crystallogenesis. We run quality checks on all samples run through the Bio21 C3 and these are available through the C3 booking software. The experiments that are set up in the Bio21 C3 are available for downstream work - many crystals grown in C3 are suitable for analysis at the Australian Synchrotron without having to re-optimise in a larger format.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Janet Newman
Phone: (03) 9662 7326
Email: janet.newman@csiro.au
Website: www.csiro.au/c3
Email: c3@csiro.au

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NCRIS Recombinant Protein Production Facility

Large-scale recombinant protein production using various host cells such as: bacterial, yeast, mammalian and insect lines. Optimisation, process development and technology transfer are available. The Facility has extensive links to cell and molecular biology, protein purification, protein crystallisation (C3 facility) and 3D structure determination expertise. Screening and drug development including medicinal chemistry is also available through the Division.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: George Lovrecz
Phone: (03) 9662 7100
Email: george.lovrecz@csiro.au
Website: http://www.csiro.au/places/Recombinant-Protein-Facility.html
Email:

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Fragment Screening

The fragment screening program is more of a capability than a physical facility. The program encompasses and uses the Biomolecular Interaction Facility and the Bio21 Crystallisation Centre to screen libraries of fragments as the first step towards rational drug design.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Tom Peat
Phone: (03) 9662 7304
Email: tom.peat@csiro.au
Website:
Email:

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Cancer Trials Australia

CTA Laboratory

The CTA Laboratory is the only non-profit bioanalytical laboratory in Australia providing translational and biomarker analysis services to the scientific community. We offer a wide range of research technologies and bioanalytical processes for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries in general. We are ideally positioned to provide translational and other laboratory services for ongoing projects, single studies and small- and large-scale analyses. Our dedicated team, with a combined laboratory experience of more than 50 years has the expertise to transform basic research into clinical application by providing a range of analytical services for research validation, regulatory submissions and clinical trials. We perform the following multi-functional roles within our centralised site: · Biomarker profiling · Assay design, development and validation · Acquisition, processing, storage and distribution of biological samples Operating from a purpose-built facility located in the Royal Melbourne Hospital campus of Melbourne Health, our laboratory is conveniently located for us to provide a conduit to our partner laboratories in the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research. The CTA Laboratory adheres to the principles of good laboratory practice and is accredited to the management standard ISO 9001:2000.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: John Barlow
Phone: (03) 9342 4522
Email: j.barlow@cancertrialsaustralia.com
Website: www.cancertrialsaustralia.com
Email: info@cancertrialsaustralia.com

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Florey Nueroscience Institutes

Small Animal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Facility (aMRI Facility)

The 4.7 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner is available for small animal scanning. Running standard sequences representing ultra-high resolution (60-80 microns) imaging of rats and mice and very high resolution (160 microns) imaging of larger animals such as rabbits, cats and guinea pigs. Following standard sequences performed, either alone or in combination (protocols) using IMND or PVM based method: T1weighted MRI (MSME sequence) - structural imaging; T2-weighted MRI (MSME or RARE sequence) - structural imaging; PD weighted MRI (MSME or RARE sequence) - structural imaging; Diffusion-weighted imaging (MSME or GRE) - functional imaging; Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI standard) - functional; T2 and T2* mapping (MSME or RARE); EPI (SE or GRE) - fast functioning imaging; Inversion Recovery (MSME) - structural imaging; MR Spectroscopy (PRESS sequences); Magnetization Transfer (GEFI-MTC) - special structural; Manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) - structural and functional. These are the standard sequences, however variations are also available.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Maria Gavrilescu
Phone: (03) 8344 7087
Email: maria.gavrilescu@florey.edu.au
Website: www.florey.edu.au/research/scientific-laboratories/neuroimaging/mri-facility/
Email: a.magnet@florey.edu.au

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Computational and Data Management Facility

Computational Platform: An SGI Altix shared-memory 3700 Bx2 system with 64 1.5GHz Itanium II processors. Each processor has 4GB of local memory. However, all processors can share all of the memory (256GB); A single Linux image manages all of the processors; Data storage consists of 4.8TB of disk and 57TB of tape; The tape storage is provided by an extensible StorageTek SL500 Tape Library which operates with three LTO3 tape drives and one robotic controller; Data migrate between disk and tape (together the ?data store?) in a process controlled by the Data Migration Facility (DMF) software; Data have redundancy through the disk RAID configuration and two copies on tape; There is no external copy of the data store at this time. Data Management: The team is developing an informatics system that receives, organizes and distributes Neuroimaging information. This system is built with Mediaflux, a commercial informatics platform available from Arcitecta. Current capabilities are: Web portal-based (https) username and password authentication; Role-based authorization so that data are accessible only to authorized users; Receive and manage MRI and other data from the RCH and HFI's aMRIF; Data access (query and download) via web-based portal.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Neil Killeen
Phone: +61 3 8344 1939
Email: nkilleen@unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://www.neuroimaging.org.au/index.php?id=363
Email:

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Statistics and Informatics Platform (DS2)

The objective of the Division of Statistics and Informaticsis to provide expertise in data, quantitative, and statistical aspects of research projects carried out in the divisions of the FNI. An important source of that expertise is our own research in a number of areas of modelling methodology of relevance for promoting the use of high-standard, rigorous quantitative methods to support decision making in the disciplines making up our institutional environment. Since advanced statistical methodology is of little use for real applications without the availability of appropriate computational and modelling tools, adapting, extending and validating complex statistical and decision modelling software is another basic task for our Division. The Division serves as a hub for collaboration within Florey Neuroscience Institutes and with other Australian and international research institutions in the areas of statistical, data, and decision modelling.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Leonid Churilov
Phone: (03) 9496 2647
Email: lchurilov@nsri.org.au
Website: https://nsri-db.austin.unimelb.edu.au/STIR/DSDSHome.html
Email: dsds@nsri.org.au

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Ludwig institute and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute

Joint Proteomics Services Facility (JPSF)

The JPSF has established a world-class protein identification and analysis capability for use by the scientists of WEHI and LICR as well as scientists from other institutions. The scientists of the JPSF are available to advise scientists on the processes available to enrich particular proteins in biological extracts. JPSF applies powerful electrophoretic, chromatographic, mass spectrometric and bioinformatic analysis techniques to identify the proteins present in complex mixtures. The results generated are reported to scientists in a timely fashion.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Heather Patsiouras
Phone: (03) 9341 3155
Email: heather.patsiouras@ludwig.edu.au
Website: http://www.ludwig.edu.au/proteomics/
Email: proteomics@Ludwig.edu.au

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Mental Health Research Institute (MHRI)

Victorian Brain Bank Network

The Victorian Brain Bank Network (VBBN) has the function of providing Australian and International researchers with easy access to clinically and neuropathologically well-characterised post-mortem human brains and related samples on which they can conduct analyses related to their fields of endeavour. Tissue is available from people diagnosed with a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer?s disease, Parkinson?s disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, Huntington?s disease, schizophrenia, depression, bi-polar disorder and normal controls. Tissue is available which is fresh frozen, and/or formalin fixed. Researchers can enquiry about obtaining tissue by contacting the VBBN coordinator, Fairlie Hinton at f.hinton@mhri.edu.au. A request for tissue application can then be sent onto the researcher. The VBBN also provides a vital neuropathological diagnostic service and supports continued education of medical and allied health professionals. The VBBN is part of the Australian Brain Bank Network (ABBN), which is a consortium of brain banks across Australia that are collecting post-mortem human brains.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Fairlie Hinton
Phone: (03) 8344 1900
Email: f.hinton@mhri.edu.au
Website: http://www.mhri.edu.au/VBBN.htm
Email:

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Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University (MIPS)

Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics (D4)

The Drug Delivery Disposition and Dynamics (D4) Theme at the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences provides expertise and infrastructure in drug formulation and drug delivery system design and assessment and evaluation of drug formulations/delivery systems in pre-clinical animal models. The facility has particular expertise in overcoming the challenges associated with oral delivery of poorly absorbed drugs, in facilitating effective pulmonary drug delivery and has a large group dedicated to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic evaluation of novel antiinfectives. Members of the theme are also skilled in the use of nanoparticulate delivery technologies (nanoparticles, liposomes, dendrimers) to facilitate site specific delivery of, for example, anticancer compounds and macromolecular constructs such as siRNA.

We have significant experience with novel drug formulation and delivery system technologies including lipid based formulations for oral and parenteral administration (microemulsions, liposomes, emulsions, micelles); liquid crystalline systems for responsive and controlled delivery and microparticulate dry power delivery technologies for pulmonary delivery. We also have broad experience in more typical drug formulation approaches (solutions, suspensions, spray-dried dispersions, tablets, capsules). Technologically, we have the capacity to evaluate formulation characteristics using colloid and particle characterization techniques including advanced particle sizing and AFM, inverse gas chromatography and thermal methods including ITC and DSC.

D4 typically works collaboratively with industrial or academic groups to address a particular drug delivery challenge, but may provide a fee-for-service function in some cases.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Chris Porter
Phone: +61 3 99(03) 9649
Email: chris.porter@pharm.monash.edu.au
Website: www.pharm.monash.edu.au/research/mips/d4
Email:

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Centre for Drug Candidate Optimisation (CDCO)

The Centre for Drug Candidate Optimisation (CDCO) is a collaborative research centre based within the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. The CDCO undertakes collaborative drug candidate optimisation to accelerate and enhance drug discovery by commercial and not-for-profit research organisations. Drug candidate optimisation fills a crucial gap between discovery and development by integrating medicinal chemistry and biology with the pharmaceutical sciences to provide a rational means of identifying drug candidates with the necessary properties to enable rapid and successful development. The CDCO uses validated systems to assess the physicochemical, metabolic, and biopharmaceutical properties of lead candidates to inform medicinal chemistry, compound progression and the selection of drug candidates for further preclinical development. Drug candidate optimisation has become an essential, value-creating component of modern drug discovery and has been recognised by the international pharmaceutical community as a critical step to enhance discovery research.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Susan Charman
Phone: (03) 9903 9626
Email: susan.charman@pharm.monash.edu.au
Website: http://www.pharm.monash.edu.au/research/mips/cdco/index.html
Email:

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Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MRCI)

Flow Cytometry and Confocal Microscopy

The Flow Cytometry and Confocal Microscopy Facility provides investigators with high performance instrumentation and comprehensive support for performing flow cytometric analysis, fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS), and confocal microscopy. Uniquely, it has the capability of flow karyotyping and sorting chromosomes. The facility is currently equipped with the three instruments: an LSR II analyser, a MoFlo cell sorter and a Leica SP2 confocal microscope. The facility provides detailed and extensive instrument training including required theory, as well as guidance in experimental setup and design. Facility staff are available for troubleshooting, help with data analysis and interpretation, and experimental design. Data storage, backup and archiving is also performed.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Matthew Burton
Phone: (03) 9345 5760
Email: matt.burton@mcri.edu.au
Website: http://www.mcri.edu.au/pages/research/flow-cytometry/default.asp
Email: FlowConfocal@mcri.edu.au

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Flow Cytometry and Confocal Microscopy

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MCRI RCH Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Children's MR Centre)

State of the art magnetic resonance imaging facility with two Siemens scanners known as 1.5T Avanto TIM MRI and 3T Trio TIM MRI units. The facility expertise lies with clinical scanning. Some of the capabilities include MR spectroscopy, functional MRI, diffusion weighted imaging, MR tractography and MR perfusion imaging. A number of multinuclear coils are available.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Vicki Devereux
Phone: +61 3 9345 4301 or 9345 5303
Email: vicki.devereux@rch.org.au
Website: http://www.mcri.edu.au/pages/research/research-group.asp?G=70
Email:

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Genome Resources Facility

The MCRI Genome Resources Facility (GRF) provides access to library resources to academic scientific community on a cost-recovery basis. At present, MCRI GRF has collections of three PAC/BAC libraries. ? RPCI-1 Human PAC library (link to detail info) ? RPCI-11 Human Male BAC Library (link to detail info) ? RPCI-23 Female (C57BL/6J) Mouse BAC Library (link to detail info)

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Benjamin Ong
Phone: (03) 8341 6361
Email: benjamin.ong@mcri.edu.au
Website: www.mcri.edu.au
Email:

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Sequenom Platform Facility

The Sequenom platform offers high-performance DNA analysis. This platform efficiently and precisely measures the amount of genetic target material and variations using Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization - Time-of-Flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and is able to deliver reliable and specific data from complex biological samples and from trace amounts of genetic target material. The Sequenom platform supports: ? SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) Genotyping ? Quantitative Gene Expression Analysis ? Methylation Studies The Sequenom platform can analyse up to two SpectroCHIPs (384-wells each) per run without any necessary user intervention. The system is capable of analysing 384 multiplexed assays in about one hour period, giving a daily throughput of more than ten SpectroCHIPs (3840 multiplexed assays). The facility consists of a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer and two Matrix liquid handlers. It provides access to instrumentation and technical assistance for performing SNP genotyping, quantitative gene expression and methylation analysis.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Benjamin Ong
Phone: (03) 8341 6361
Email: benjamin.ong@mcri.edu.au
Website: www.mcri.edu.au
Email:

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National Neuroscience Facility and Neurosciences Victoria

Neuroscience Trials Australia (NTA)

NTA is a neuroscience dedicated, not-for-profit, contract research organisation (CRO) and plays a lead role in the facilitation of clinical trials in our region. Supporting a membership comprising a wide range of clinical neuroscience specialty groups, NTA provides access to key opinion leaders and clinical trial expertise through a range of tailored clinical trials services, including biostatistics, project management, pharmacovigilance, quality assurance and data management services. Our core business is to coordinate, support and facilitate clinical trials across investigators, sites and centres.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Peter Keller
Phone: (03) 9496 4482
Email: pkeller@neurotrialsaustralia.com
Website: www.neurotrialsaustralia.com
Email:

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neuroProteomics and neuroGenomics Platform

The P&G Platform provides access to a broad range of capabilities on both a collaborative and fee-for-service basis, and offers particular expertise in neuroscientific applications. Our facility offers the following services: NATA accredited DNA sequencing and genotyping Custom genetic analysis including a wide range of established neurodegenerative disease screens 2-Dimentional gel electrophoresis MALDI-TOF Mass spectrometry CD Mass spectrometry Chromatography Bioinformatic consultation Draw on the knowledge and expertise of established neuroscientists for your research projects.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Tiffany Cowie
Phone: (03) 8344 3438
Email: tiffanyc@unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://www.nnf.com.au/platforms/genprot/
Email: platform-enquiries@unimelb.edu.au

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Faculty of Medicine and Neurosciences Victoria Platform-Cell Physiology, Histology and Imaging

The Platform provides equipment and facilities for electrophysiological investigation by sharp electrode and patch-clamp recording. Electrophysiology work stations are equipped for intracellular and patch recording, including single electrode voltage clamp. There is equipment for spritz application of drug, nerve stimulation, infrared DIC and fluorescence illumination. The set-ups include both inverted and upright microscopes and facilities for brain-slice recording. Ancillary equipment includes two Brown-Flaming microelectrode pullers, a Brown-Flaming laser puller, micro-osmometer, microforge, Bessel low noise filter and a Zero Z vibratome. Imaging includes 3 confocal microscopes, a Zeiss Meta, Zeiss Pascal and a Biorad, which are all mounted on Zeiss Axioplan upright microscopes (http://www.anatomy.unimelb.edu.au/services/confocal/). Also available are laser microdissection, conventional multi-wavelength fluorescence microscope and high resolution white light microscopy. There is a small workshop area in the electrophysiology suite for minor electrical and mechanical work (for example, making stimulating electrodes) The histology component of the Platform is run by The Australian Phenomics Network-Histopathology and Organ Pathology Service

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Tina Cardamone
Phone: (03) 8344 8044
Email: t.cardamone @unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://www.neurosciencesvic.com.au
Email:

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Imaging

The Imaging Division of the Brain Research Institute facilitates co-ordinates and assists in research in the neurosciences using advanced imaging techniques. This facility owns and operates two high field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners that are 100% dedicated to research. These platform capabilities provide an integrated MRI and neuroscience facility where basic problems in biology, from large animal models, to human studies can be investigated. Techniques include diffusion MRI; perfusion MRI; T2-relaxometry; sodium imaging; functional connectivity functional MRI and MR spectroscopy.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Karin Sitte
Phone: +61 3 9496 2948
Email: ksitte@nsri.org.au
Website: www.brain.org.au/mri/access.html
Email:

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Neuro Research Services

Neuro Research Services provides academic and industry researchers access to a comprehensive rodent neuro-phenotyping facility. Behavioural equipment, including video tracking software systems, enables the assessment of rodent motor function, memory, learning, addiction, anxiety, depression and nociception. This is complemented by neuro-histology and an advanced microscopy service that enables the full assessment of the central nervous system of genetically modified and drug-treated rodents. Access to expertise and equipment is available. A number of neurodegenerative and pain rodent models are available for proof-of-concept and preclinical assessment of potential new therapies. The facility engages leading neuroscientists and clinical consultants to provide expert advice and review of data. Projects are designed, managed, undertaken and reported under an established quality management system by experienced scientists.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Julie Anne Quinn
Phone: (03) 8344 1834
Email: julie.quinn@florey.edu.au
Website: www.neuroresearchservices.com.au
Email: info@neuroresearchservices.com

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Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Bioinformatics Core Facility

The Bioinformatics facility at Peter Mac provides statistical and computing expert advice for genomic data analysis (eg. next gene sequencing, gene expression and SNP microarray analysis). The facility also provides advice on the best experimental design possible under the given constraints (cost / sample number) and carry out analyses of experimental data by applying existing solutions or implementing new computational algorithms. Available commercial software solutions include Partek, GeneSpring GX and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Dr Gian Sberna
Phone: (03) 9656 1864
Email: gian.sberna@petermac.org
Website: www.petermac.org/Research/Bioinformatic
Email:

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Peter MacCallum Microscopy Core Facility

The Microscopy Core is composed of four overlapping areas; histology, optical microscopy, electron microscopy (EM) and image analysis. Histology: All aspects of histology including wax, resin, frozen sectioning and immunohistochemistry for research. Optical microscopy: Immunofluorescence, live cell microscopy (both wide-field and confocal), laser capture microscopy,and confocal microscopy. Electron microscopy: Cryo-ultramicrotomy, freeze fixation (both slamming/plunging and high pressure fixation), PLT (progressive lowering of temperature), freeze substitution, chemical fixation,immunogold labelling, correlative optical/electron microscopy, and all aspects of routine embedding for transmission electron microscopy. Expertise in the processing of samples for scanning electron microscopy is also provided. Image analysis: Image analysis of micrographs including live cell tracking, quantitation of immunohistochemistry/fluorescence, cell shape/size/volume, cell counting, and so on. The experienced microscopy staff provide full support for researchers utilising the facility's microscopes and are available for consultation/collaboration/training. Regular mini-workshops are also carried out.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Sarah Ellis
Phone: (03) 96561244
Email: sarah.ellis@petermac.org
Website: http://www.petermac.org/
Email:

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Pathology (Peter Mac)

This NATA accredited facility offers immunohistochemistry, biomarker validation, flow cytometry, blood morphology, tissue microarrays, human pathology opinion, analysis of methylation and molecular pathology testing as well as standard haematological and biochemical laboratory services.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Patricia Goncalves
Phone: (03) 9656 1515
Email: patricia.goncalves@petermac.org
Website: www.petermac.org
Email:

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Functional Genomics Group (Victorian Centre for Functional Genomics and the siRNA highthroughput screening facility)

The Functional Genomics Group at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre is open to the Australian medical research community for the purpose of providing access to both small interfering (siRNA) and lentiviral-based short hairpin RNAi (shRNAmir) gene knockdown screens for functional genomics studies. The Facility is managed by Dr Kaylene Simpson and overseen by a scientific advisory group consisting of scientists from Institutes across Melbourne. The VCFG has purchased a library of ~130,000 lentiviral based shRNAmir constructs, representing up to 5 constructs per gene from Open BioSystems (www.openbiosystems.com). Researchers can access the whole human genome, or boutique library collections that focus on apoptosis, cell cycle, growth and proliferation, polarity and cell invasion and the kinome. We have produced lentiviral pools of 4,608 constructs per pool that permit reasonably rapid and successful screening at the whole genome level. The ACRF siRNA high throughput screening facility offers a parallel screening platform using Dharmacon siRNA technology (www.dharmacon.com) to systematically knockdown individual genes for the entire human (~18,500) or mouse (~17,000) genome. Such whole genome screens are performed in high throughput using our fully integrated robotics platform (Caliper Sciclone ALH3000 liquid handler, BioTek406 cell dispenser and plate washer). The Facility also houses a high throughput, high content image analyser (Cellomics Arrayscan VTi) for cell based microscopy assays and a high throughput microplate reader. We are a member of the RNAi Global Initiative (www.RNAiGlobal.org), a consortium of International Institutes that have invested in the whole genome screening technology. The shRNA platform was funded by the Victorian State Government, the Peter Mac and industry partners AMATA (Australasian Microarray and Associated Technologies Association) and Agilent Technologies and the siRNA platform funded by the ACRF (Australian Cancer Genomics Program). Efficient and cost-effective gene knockdown screens will be offered.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Kaylene Simpson
Phone: (03) 9656 1790
Email: kaylene.simpson@petermac.org
Website: http://www.petermac.org/Research/ACRFCancerGenomicsPlatform
Email:

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Molecular Genomics Core Facility

The Molecular Genomics Core Facility encompasses both the Microarray Core facility and the Next Generation DNA Sequencing Core Facility. For both facilities, services to external researchers are offered when spare capacity allows.

MICROARRAY: We offer both full and partial services to researchers who wish to use Affymetrix Gene Expression arrays and for Affymetrix 500K and SNP 6.0 arrays. In general, external users of the facility are offered full service only (start-to-finish microarray processing following receipt of RNA or DNA sample). Expression array service includes 3?-probe based microarrays, Gene 1.0 ST arrays and Exon 1.0 ST arrays. Service for Agilent and other non-Affymetrix, 2-colour arrays is available on request. In addition to Affymetrix arrays and Agilent/non-Affymetrix arrays, we also offer service for Illumina expression arrays only, up to the stage of microarray scanning (available from January 2010). In the first instance this service will be offered to internal researchers only. The Microarray Facility offers advice on the most appropriate gene expression array to use in your experimental system with due consideration to budgetary constraints and experimental design. We offer RNA sample QC analysis using an Agilent Bioanalyser, accurate quantitation of low yield nucleic acid samples using PicoGreen assays, technical advice, troubleshooting, protocol development. RNA extraction service from fresh frozen tissue is available on request.
Equipment Base (MICROARRAY): * Eppendorf 5075 LH epMotion Liquid Handling system & accessories * MJ Tetrad I PCR Machine, 96-well (x1), Bio-Rad Tetrad PCR machine-96- well (x1) * Affymetrix Hybridisation Ovens 640 (x2) * Affymetrix Fluidics Station FS450 (x2) * Affymetrix GeneChip Scanner with 48-carousel autoloader (Model GCS3000); * Agilent dual laser Microarray Scanner (Model G2505B) * Agilent Hybridisation Oven and Hybridisation chambers * Agilent Bioanalyser Model G2938C and provision of RNA Nano, RNA Pico and DNA chips including High Sensitivity * NanoDrop ND-1000 for small-volume nucleic acid quantitation * ?QuBit? fluorimeter for accurate DNA/RNA quantitation of low concentration samples * Applied Biosystems 7900HT Real Time Instrument * Hybaid oven (rotisserie); Microtitre Plate Shaker (Ratek); Microfuges, Centrifuge with Plate Adaptors Megafuge 1.0R * Illumina Bead array Hybridisation oven, Expression array Start-Up package (from January 2010).

NEXT GENERATION DNA SEQUENCING Services: chIP-seq, shRNA-seq, targeted resequencing on the Illumina Genome Analyser IIx. We generally perform Cluster Generation, DNA Sequencing, QC metrics and preliminary alignment of NGS data using customer-prepared DNA libraries. However, DNA library preparation fro NGS is available on request. We are 100-bp run and paired-end sequencing enabled, and we currently run Pipleline version 1.5 and Sequence Control Software (SCS v. 2.5). Whole exome pull-down experiments for targeted resequencing (also known as genome partitioning, exon capture) will be available as a service from February 2010 (NimbleGen on-array or in-solution, Agilent in-solution SureSelect). Detailed NGS data analysis is available via the Peter Mac Research Division's Bioinformatics Core facility. We also have a Bioinformatician dedicated to next Generation DNA Sequencing analysis and data management (commencing Jan. 2010).
Equipment Base (NEXT GENERATION DNA SEQUENCING): * Illumina Genome Analyser GAIIx (native) * Cluster Station * Paired End Module * Covaris S2 AFA Acoustic Shearing Device * Clare Chemicals Dark Reader Transilluminator * NimbleGen Array Hybridisation and Elution system for on-array exon capture * Sigma 6-15K High Capacity Centrifuge * Nutator Mixer

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Vikki Marshall [Current contact person: Gian Sberna]
Phone: +61 3 9656 1138
Email: gian.sberna@petermac.org
Website (microarray): http://www.petermac.org/Research/Microarray
Website (NextGen sequencing): http://www.petermac.org/Research/NextGenerationSequencing
Email: microarrayfacility@petermac.org

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The Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Core

The Flow Cytometry Facility provides a high level, integrated service that includes the following; multi-parameter flow cytometric analysis, fully supported fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS) for investigators, training and education on all aspects of cytometry via tutorials and personal instruction, a reliable and comprehensive system for management, storage and archival of flow cytometry data, evaluation and introduction of cytometry hardware and software, development of new cytometry analysis and FACS approaches. Equipment: 2 multi parameter cell sorters, both ?Diva?s? an LSR2, 2 x Canto2 and an Automacs.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Ralph Rossi
Phone: +61 3 9656 3747
Email: ralph.rossi@petermac.org
Website: http://www.petermac.org/Research/FlowCytometry
Email:

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Small Animal PET Facility

The facility has extensive capabilities in small animal positron emission tomography scanning, with expertise in oncology. Resources include 2 PET scanners, on-site radiotracer production, fully trained staff and a dedicated animal house.

Access: Research collaboration,
Manager: Carleen Cullinane
Phone: (03) 9656 1275
Email: carleen.cullinane@petermac.org
Website:
Email:

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St Vincent’s Institute

Electrophysiology

The facility is equipped for patch-clamp electrophysiology, allowing plasma-membrane ion-channel or transporter activity to be recorded in whole-cell or excised membrane patch configurations. In addition lipid-bilayer recording apparatus allows recording of activity of purified ion-channel or transporter proteins in a minimal system, incorporated in an artificial membrane.

Access: Research collaboration
Manager: Belinda Michell
Phone:
Email: bmichell@svi.edu.au
Website: http://www.svi.edu.au/index.cfm?objectID=87FC3310-C511-C763-E26610D75551FDAA
Email: structuralbiologyplatforms@svi.edu.au

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X-ray Crystallography

X-ray crystallography is used to determine the 3D- atomic structure of proteins. Using state of the art equipment this facility has experience with proteins related to cancer, infection and neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer?s disease. This is essential for understanding the function of proteins and allows structure based design of novel drugs. The structures are determined by shooting X-rays at protein crystals to generate X-ray scattering patterns. These patterns are converted into 3-D atomic structures of proteins using computers

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Structure Based Drug Design

This facility uses virtual screening to facilitate structure-based drug design. Once the structure of a protein is elucidated, the structure is screened against a data base containing the structures of more than 4 million compounds with aim of finding drug-like molecules that are predicted to bind to the protein structure. It also has the ability to undertake computational hit to lead and lead optimisation as well as experimental approaches including fragment screening.

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Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy

The CD spectromometer shines polarised light at proteins and allows analysis of protein secondary structure from circular dichroism spectra ? for example ?-helices and ?-sheets (far UV spectrum) ? and aids monitoring of protein folding and conformational changes prior to using more expensive and time consuming methods such as NMR and X-ray crystallography. Secondary structure can be determined by CD spectroscopy in the "far-uv" spectral region. Thermal stability can be assessed using CD by following changes in the spectrum with increasing temperature. CD gives less specific structural information than X-ray crystallography and protein NMR spectroscopy, for example, which both give atomic resolution data. However, CD spectroscopy is a quick method that does not require large amounts of proteins or extensive data processing.

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Dynamic Light Scattering

The Zetasizer Nano ZS (Malvern Instruments, UK) instrument uses light scattering techniques to determine the size distribution profile of particles in suspension. There is a well known correlation between the monodispersity of a protein sample and likely crystallisation success. It follows that trialing polydisperse samples in a crystallisation robot would be likely a waste of time and a waste of precious protein. Compared to older DLS technologies, the Zetasizer Nano ZS is very sensitive, capable of handling low microlitre volumes of sample with almost complete sample recovery and is extremely quick, taking only a few minutes per sample. In many respects, DLS data is now as easy to obtain as a conventional UV spectrophotometric reading, and is much more informative about the potential for a sample to yield crystals. DLS measurements is used by all users of the facility for quality control or prescreening of samples prior to entering crystallisation trials as well as improving any initial crystals obtained. For example, dispersants and additives can be systematically optimised to produce monodisperse solutions of proteins that are much more likely to yield crystals compared to samples containing aggregates. The DLS based approach will further improve the outcomes of the high throughput crystallisation experiments.

Access: Research collaboration
Manager: Luke Miles
Phone:
Email: lmiles@svi.edu.au
Website: http://www.svi.edu.au/index.cfm?objectID=87FC3310-C511-C763-E26610D75551FDAA
Email: structuralbiologyplatforms@svi.edu.au

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SVI Flow Cytometry Facility

The SVI Flow Cytometry Facility supports a wide range of flow cytometric applications such as DNA analysis, immuno-phenotyping, lymphocyte function assessment, apoptosis and proliferation assays, just to name a few. The facility is PC2 and houses two analysers and one cell-sorter. The cytometers are equipped as follows: FACSCalibur - 2 laser analyser (488nm, 635nm) that detects 4 fluorescence and 2 scatter parameters; LSRFortessa - 3 laser analyser (488nm, 640nm, 405nm) which detects 16 fluorescence and 2 scatter parameters and is also equipped with a high-throughput sampler (plates); and the FACSAria - 3 laser cell-sorter (488nm, 633nm, 405nm) which detects 12 fluorescence and 2 scatter parameters and can sterile sort four different populations simultaneously and has the option of sorting into tubes or plate. For further information, please contact Natalie Sanders (nsanders@svi.edu.au).

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Natalie Sanders
Phone: 9288 3511
Email: nsanders@svi.edu.au
Website: http://www.svi.edu.au/index.cfm?objectID=CA5FAE53-B9E9-87F7-21530D546D5907EB
Email:

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St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research Mass Spectrometry Facility

A mass spectrometry facility specialising in the analysis of protein phosphorylation

Access: Research collaboration,
Manager: Rohan Steel
Phone: (03) 9288 2398
Email: rsteel@svi.edu.au
Website: currently under development
Email:

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IVIS Spectrum

The IVIS Spectrum allows observation of cells non-invasively in animals making it a very useful tool for work on bone biology, metabolic research, diabetes and transplantation. Expertise lies in using mice with fluorescent markers. 100-1000 cells sensitivity.

Access: Research collaboration, Fee for service
Manager: Tom Loudovaris
Phone: +61 3 9288 2405
Email: tloudovaris@svi.edu.au
Website:
Email:

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Electron Microscopy

The unit provides a diagnostic service for the State Neuropathology Service and University affiliated hospitals including allied interstate hospitals by processing and examining biopsies with conventional electron microscopy. The dedicated team has expertise and knowledge in all aspects of conventional electron microscopy (TEM and SEM preparation) in the biological, medical and diagnostic fields.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Anna Friedhuber
Phone: +61 3 8344 5860
Email: amfriedh@unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://em.path.unimelb.edu.au/about.html
Email:

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Biomedical Sciences Histology Facility

Histology is the microscopic study of tissues and cells with its techniques producing visual images that are a true blend of art and science. Within the Histology Facility, equipment is available to produce high quality microscopic sections of frozen and paraffin embedded material. Induction and equipment training sessions are held by histology staff to train staff, honours and post graduate students in histological techniques.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Laura Leone
Phone: (03) 8344 5752
Email: lleone@unimelb.edu.au
Website: www.anatomy.unimelb.edu.au/services/histology
Email: biomedsci-histology@unimelb.edu.au

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Australian Phenomics Network, Histopathology and Organ Pathology (University of Melbourne)

The Histopathology and Organ Pathology service helps researchers across Australia in histological preparation, analysing histology images and data on genetically modified animals. This service offers the latest in high quality capabilities including:
- Quality controlled mouse necropsies, tissue preparation and histological processing
- Pathological analysis of tissues
- Digital slide scanner capable of producing high quality images
- High resolution light microscopy with electronic image capture
- Confocal microscopy
- Specialised staining and immunohistochemistry

The Mirax Digital Slide Scanner is a high resolution scanning device capable of imaging standard stained histological slides. Digitised whole slide images are saved to the server and can be interrogated remotely by the client as required through the web based interface.

Staff providing this service have extensive histology, diagnostic and electronic imaging experience. Consultant Medical and Veterinary Pathologists are available to provide expert advice. The Histopathology and Organ Pathology service is based at the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at the University of Melbourne and is supported by the Federal and Victorian State Governments through the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) initiative and by the University of Melbourne. The Histopathology and Organ Pathology service provides a secure interface where users are able to login and interrogate their case files and images.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Tina Cardamone
Phone: (03) 8344 8044
Email: t.cardamone @unimelb.edu.au
Website: http://www.apn-histopathology.unimelb.edu.au
Email: apn-info@unimelb.edu.au

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Victorian Cancer Biobank

The Victorian Cancer Biobank (Biobank) is a program funded by the Victoria Government to provide biospecimens for translational research. The Biobank has a unique operational model, which has a ?hub and spokes? collection system where private and public hospitals form the spokes around four Consortium member tissue bank sites - at Austin Health, Melbourne Health, Peter Mac and Southern Health. The multi-site collection system is integrated with a centralised application process to streamline access to biospecimens by academic and commercial sector researchers. Biobank staff obtain consent from donors to collect tissue and blood that is in excess of what is required for diagnosis and store the derived biospecimens for future research. Data managers collect data associated with the biospecimens and collaboration with BioGrid Australia will enable de-identified clinical follow-up data to be linked to biospecimens.

Access: Fee for service
Manager: Anne Thompson
Phone: (03) 9635 5439
Email: anne.thompson@cancervic.org.au
Website: www.viccancerbiobank.org.au
Email: biospecimens@viccancerbiobank.org.au

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