Acknowledgment and adherence to the user agreement (DOCX) and the following policies are required to access the BRIC and CMF laboratories.
Users who wish to run an instrument independently must complete appropriate instrument training and obtain prior approval from core laboratory staff. Instrument training is available by appointment. Contact the lab manager at gsunter@niu.edu to make arrangements.
The CMF and BRIC laboratories use an online scheduling system, BookkIt, to reserve instrument time. Please contact the lab manager at gsunter@niu.edu to receive an invitation to the reservation system.
All CMF and BRIC users are responsible for backing up their data. Several instrument workstations do not have WiFi access in order to protect older software from problematic operating system updates. Please bring a USB drive to collect your data.
Different workstations may have unique cleanup protocols that users are required to follow at the end of their work. Users are also responsible for leaving facility areas in the same condition as when they arrived.
If any problems arise during the course of your work, please notify the lab manager at gsunter@niu.edu as soon as possible.
All core users and visitors agree to wear PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, and lab coats, at all times in main laboratory work areas. In room 119, when the sonicator is in operation, all users must wear ear protection provided by the core facilities.
Before using new reagents or performing new protocols, users must review all material safety data sheet (MSDS) information and any standard operating procedures (SOPs) relevant to the work.
All users must report chemical or physical accidents and equipment failures immediately to the lab supervisor at gsunter@niu.edu and file an accident report through NIU ORCIS reporting system.
Fire: Exit immediately, avoid elevators, and use the eastern exit. Call 911 and notify: 815-753-3905, ncampbell4@niu.edu, and gsunter@niu.edu.
Tornado: Stay on the first floor of Montgomery Hall.
Room occupancy limits and distancing requirements have been removed. Surface sterilization now includes wiping down safety cabinet and fume hood exteriors before and after use.
Mask use is currently optional at user discretion. Disposable masks are available upon request.
In the event of increased pandemic severity, users will be notified by email and all core activities may be suspended. The lab manager will oversee shutdown procedures and sample preservation.
Users who violate the BRIC and CMF user agreement or policies may have their laboratory privileges revoked. Appeals may be directed to the BRIC and CMF Laboratory Director, Barrie Bode, bodebp@niu.edu.
BIOS Research Instrumentation Core (BRIC) and Core Microscopy Facility (CMF)
Montgomery Hall
Rooms 112, 113, 115, 116 and 119
General questions can be directed to kmeyer5@niu.edu.
Student enrollment questions can be directed to sfarley@niu.edu.