Integrated bioimaging facility for resolving the nanoscale cell biology (iBIOS)

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Jacob Piehler
• Subject Area: Cell Biology ; Biophysics
• Term: from 2017 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 324775161

Within the framework of the collaborative research center (Physiology and Dynamics of Cellular Microcompartments), a profound expertise in applying super-resolution imaging to living cells was acquired at the University of Osnabrück during the past five years. Currently, these advanced imaging methods are accessible via an established imaging facility with a decentralized infrastructure. In the beginning of 2017, this infrastructure will be relocated into the new research building Center of Cellular Nanoanalytics (CellNanOS) which was specifically designed for this purpose in order to ideally provide a seamless application of diverse high performance microscopy techniques for internal and external users. In collaboration with the Eric Betzig laboratory and the Janelia research Campus, we set-up lattice light-sheet microscopy enabling three-dimensional imaging beyond the diffraction limit. This cutting-edge imaging method will to be made accessible to broad user groups being unique in Germany. In addition, we currently establish nanoscopic analyses through electron microscopy with a particular focus on three-dimensional imaging and cryo-electron microscopy. A major emphasis lies on the development of correlative approaches to link dynamic cellular processes with ultrastructural data. In combination with our broad expertise in posttranslational labeling techniques, these complementary approaches provide a unique potential for correlative imaging at highest spatial resolution. In order to take advantage of this potential, we request additional personnel to adapt the application of these complex microscopy methods to various biological specimen and scientific questions. To this end, the development of quantitative and fully automated processing tools for correlative approaches and three-dimensional imaging are highly required. The physical connection of the CellNanOs building to the department of biology and its interdisciplinary concept is considerably beneficial for this project, leading to an integrated bioimaging facility with tailored premises for microscopy techniques, sample preparation and data processing as well as user-oriented workshops.

• DFG Programme: Core Facilities
• Participating Persons: Professor Dr. Michael Hensel; Dr. Rainer Knurre