Research infrastructure μNiSCH is a cutting-edge infrastructure dedicated to advancing single cell biology at the Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University.
Umeå University harbors a significant expertise in microbiology, positioning us uniquely to bridge this existing gap in single-cell -omics research. However, realizing this potential necessitates the strategic integration of current equipment, methodologies, tools, and resources into a dynamic, self-sustaining facility.
This R&D hub will not only offer enduring support but also ensure quick and flexible response times. Importantly, it will provide broad accessibility to local and international researchers to leverage advanced SC technologies within affordable budgets. Our initiative is pivotal in nurturing innovative and multidisciplinary research, particularly for those who seek quality services but are mindful of budgetary restrictions. By focusing on these aspects, the facility is likely to serve as a catalyst for future discoveries. We believe that the accessibility to our experimental platforms and services will expand with time, considering the unmet knowledge gaps in infection biology.
Our facility focuses on consolidating and expanding research in this dynamic field. We are also at the forefront of developing innovative molecular tools for single cell transcriptomics and genomics, with a special emphasis on microbial studies.
Onyx (Atrandi Biosciences)
Onyx is a microfluidic platform designed to generate and manipulate water-in-oil droplets or semi-permeable capsules for high-throughput single-cell and single-molecule analysis. It offers intuitive syringe pump control, high-speed microscopy, active manipulation, and image-based droplet analysis—all without locking users into specific assays.
This unparalleled flexibility enables effortless integration, customization, and optimization of any droplet-based workflow. Designed for reliability and ease of use, Onyx is the complete solution for laboratories aiming to redefine liquid handling processes with droplet microfluidics.
Chromium (10X Genomics)
The Chromium Controller uses advanced microfluidics to perform single cell partitioning and barcoding in a matter of minutes. Powered by Next GEM technology, the Chromium Controller enables integrated analysis of single cells at massive scale. The Chromium Controller is compatible with Single Cell Gene Expression, Single Cell Immune Profiling, and Single Cell ATAC. Capture molecular readouts of cell activity in multiple dimensions, including gene expression, cell surface proteins, immune clonotype, antigen specificity, and chromatin accessibility.
LabSat Multiplex immunostaining system & Pannoramic Midi II
Rapid immunohistochemistry using Fast Fluidic Technology (FFeX) enables precise and efficient advanced staining techniques, including monoplex and multiplex immunohistochemistry (IHC). Together, the LabSat® Multiplex immunostaining system and Pannoramic Midi II demonstrate a rapid IHC and digital scanning solution.
The OT-2 multi-well pipetting robot & Mantis Rapid Dispenser System
Automated liquid-handling system designed to streamline and enhance laboratory workflows.
Celsee Genesis system
Genesis system enables the capture of cells from liquid biopsies and other sample types. After capture, the enriched cells can be recovered for downstream analysis such as single-cell genomics, digital PCR, or culture.
BD Rhapsody™ HT Xpress System
The BD Rhapsody™ Express System enables single-cell capture and barcoding of hundreds to thousands of single cells for analysis of genomic and proteomic information, using proprietary, gentle, robust microwell-based single-cell partitioning technology.
All researchers at Umeå University will have access to the hub. It will have an internal website providing general information about, e.g., services, a portal for submission of the project idea with brief description, and e-mail of the Facility Manager. The researchers will be able to contact the hub via e-mail and project submission. The first interaction is to organize a meeting to identify the need and technology to be used, designing the experiment, for example, how many technical and biological replicates could/should be used, training researchers, and running the project.
External users are expected to pay their own for the travel and accommodation. External samples will be stored for at most one year. Providing barcoded multiwell plates with enough information on how to prepare samples for transportation, handling the shipments, and storing will be managed by the Facility Manager. Storage space and office space for a short time stay is available at the Department of Molecular Biology.
