Acquisition of a Confocal Microscope to Support Research, Teaching, and Technical Skill Development

About This Grant

Project Summary/Abstract Dr. Sumit Saurabh, a new tenure-track Assistant Professor of Cell Biology at Chicago State University (CSU), seeks support through the NIH Instrumentation Grant for Resource-Limited Institutions to acquire the first confocal microscope - Evident Scientific FLUOVIEW FV4000 Inverted Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope. CSU is a resource-limited Carnegie-designated Research University committed to STEM education and research training for undergraduate and master’s students. The FLUOVIEW FV4000 is a state-of-the-art confocal microscope that combines high sensitivity, rapid image acquisition, and automated capture with minimal user supervision, making it ideal for both research and training environments. This instrument is widely used at the University of Chicago and Northwestern thus validating imaging capabilities across multiple fields, including neuroscience and cell biology. It supports imaging of fixed and live brain tissues up to 200 µm in depth, and its fast resonance scanner enables the capture of real-time neural activity, further enhancing its functionality. Our current fluorescent microscopes, though well maintained, are old and offer limited functionality, severely restricting our ability to improve the quality of research and training. We propose to install this instrument in the shared imaging facility at CSU, where it will support a broad user base across multiple departments, advancing both research and education. This instrument will be critical for generating preliminary data for grants, particularly for new hires Dr. Saurabh and Dr. Carroll. Dr. Saurabh is establishing his laboratory focused on neurodegenerative disorders and the effects of environmental toxicants (e.g., PFAS). Dr. Carroll, starting in Fall 2025, will study the firing potentials of neurons. Dr. Maselli is investigating neural connectomics, and Dr. Richter from the Department of Chemistry is collaborating with Dr. Saurabh on PFAS detection and removal strategies. Together, these faculty members will engage students in experiential learning through research projects spanning multiple areas of public health significance. In addition to advancing faculty research, the microscope will enhance the quality and content of courses such as Advanced Cell Biology, Capstone, and Independent Study, while expanding STEM engagement through initiatives like the Neuroscience Bootcamp and the CSU–Purdue University Mentoring Program (SLOAN, MSEIP). By providing hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, it will deepen student engagement, build confidence in experimental techniques, and better prepare them for careers in biomedical research and related fields. Furthermore, its modular design allows for future upgrades, enhances its functionality, and enables the adoption of emerging imaging techniques e.g. expansion microscopy.