NEWS
NORMAN, OKLA. – The University of Oklahoma officially unveiled a new microscope that enables advanced research capabilities during a grand opening on Thursday, Dec. 5.
“This Tundra cryo-transmission electron microscope is the first of its kind here at OU and in the state of Oklahoma. And, since it is a relatively new instrument, there are only a handful in the nation,” said Ann West, director of the Oklahoma Center for Biomedical Research Excellence in Structural Biology. “This microscope will allow researchers to complete single particle analysis for macro-molecular structure determinations.”
A cryo-TEM allows scientists to examine extremely small things, like proteins or viruses, in their natural state. The instrument passes an electron beam through a thin, frozen sample and captures detailed 2D images. Multiple 2D images can then be combined to produce 3D reconstructions that reveal atomic-level details.
“It’s very exciting that this instrument will be part of the core user facility of the Sam Roberts Noble Microscopy Lab. This technology will support many current and future students,” said SRNML Director Andrew Elwood Madden.
This facility was made possible through collaborative support from the Office of the Vice President for Research and Partnerships, the SRNML and COBRE.
Others present at the ceremony who will be involved in the use of the Tundra cryo-TEM include COBRE Biomolecular Structure Core Director Len Thomas, SRNML Research Scientist Julian Sabisch and SRNML Research Associate Preston Larson.
Learn more about COBRE, the SRNML and the Tundra cryo-TEM.
About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. For more information about the university, visit www.ou.edu.
The Native Nations Center for Tribal Policy Research at the University of Oklahoma will launch its first Sovereign Policy Intensive in September, a new program designed for elected tribal officials that focuses on understanding broadly relevant federal systems grounded in departmental structures, legislation and appropriations, and legal frameworks.
For 46 years and counting, G. Frans Currier, D.D.S., M.S.D., M.Ed., has been a faculty member at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. This year, the American Association of Orthodontists recognized his service with a conference named in his honor and the opportunity to give a lecture to his fellow orthodontists from around the nation.
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History at the University of Oklahoma recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of its current building’s public opening, as well as its impact on the university, state and beyond.
