By Institut Catala de Nanociencia i Nanotecnologia (ICN2)
The ICN2 Biolab is a transversal facility that provides scientific advice and hands-on training in the field of Cell Biology, Microbiology and Molecular Biology, as well as technical support to conduct basic and applied research activities involving living organisms (cells/cell lines, microorganisms), potentially infectious material (blood, tissues, bodily fluids, clinical specimens), and other biological material (proteins, nucleic acids, microbial toxins). The use of the Biolab Facility is open to all ICN2 groups (internal users) and to the surrounding research community (external users). Its central goal is to facilitate the pursuit of research at the interface of Nanotechnology and Life Science in a successful and safe way. The ICN2 Biolab is a Biosafety Level 2 laboratory (BSL-2) and complies with the legal requirements for activities with biological agents up to risk group 2. Therefore, all work performed in the Biolab must be done after appropriate training following BSL-2 guidelines. The specific support provided by the Biolab Facility includes: - Access to the BSL-2 laboratory and instrumentation. Assistance, technical supervision and user training to ensure proper and safe use of available equipment. - Scientific and technical management, consultation and support in experimental design, implementation and analysis. - Technical and basic instruction (hands-on training) in cell and tissue culture experimentation, and in molecular biology and microbiology techniques. - Performance of experimental procedures by the technical staff of the facility. - Development of protocols, guidelines, operating procedures, reports and management of the required mandatory documentation. - Assistance with administrative tasks related to legal aspects of biosecurity and biosafety. - General maintenance of the laboratory including cleaning, waste disposal, sterilization and disinfecting procedures and provision of supplies (disposable lab ware, sterile consumables and solutions, etc.) The Biolab Facility aims to be flexible and open to short-term or long-term (temporary) changes. All researchers are welcome to discuss possible adaptations of the Biolab with the facility leader who will try to address special needs and arrangements.
