Many different researchers use the LSMF so it is essential that all users respect the needs of others and leave equipment and space equal, if not better, than you found them. There are a few laboratory guidelines that all users are asked to observe in order to provide equipment in good working order, minimize conflicts, and make the best use of your time. The main items are outlined below. We may discuss additional items when you begin using the laboratory. If at any time you have questions about lab policy or have special needs, please do not hesitate to let us know and we will try to accommodate you.
Access: The facility is open from 8:00 to 5:00 each workday. It is available to all researchers on campus. However, because you must be trained and checked out on equipment, it is necessary to contact Debby Sherman (46666) prior to use. You will be asked to fill out a general information form and we will review procedures and guidelines prior to your actually using the facility.
Faculty Responsibility: A Purdue faculty member must take responsibility for their staff and students who use the facility and the projects done here. This includes financial responsibility for costs incurred.
Off-Hours Access: Access after hours is limited to those regular users who have been checked out on desired equipment and are not able to complete their work during normal hours. It is possible to sign-out a key to the facility for single-time use.
Scheduling: If possible, please reserve time on the light and electron microscopes, microtomes, darkrooms, and the computers in advance by contacting the LSMF staff. You can do this by phone (46666), E-mail (dsherman@purdue.edu) or through the web sign-up system (major equipment only). This procedure is necessary to avoid scheduling conflicts. Equipment is signed up on a first-come first-serve basis. You are welcome to use the equipment at any time if it has not already been reserved.
Equipment Malfunctions: Do not attempt to fix any equipment problems, regardless how small or insignificant they may appear. Contact the staff and they will attempt to rectify the problem or will contact the appropriate service personnel. This rule must be enforced so that we can maintain the equipment in the best possible shape and avoid unnecessary downtime. We can only maintain the equipment properly if you, the user, keep us informed of potential problems.
Supplies: The users provide some supplies. Other routine items are supplied by the facility. Please ask prior to using something. Recharge supplies must be recorded for future billing.
Service: A full or partial service option is available for preparation of samples and imaging. Contact Debby Sherman (46666, dsherman@purdue.edu) to discuss your needs and obtain rate information.
Reporting problems: Contact Debby at the lab (46666) or at home (Emergency only 583-2984) if any equipment or other problems arise in the laboratory. If she is not available during working hours and the problem must be taken care of immediately, contact Chia-Ping Huang (46666) and she will attempt to help you.