eBERlight provides comprehensive support to the following resources; APCF (Sector 84 of APS, sample preparation), ALCF (exascale computing for data processing through Polaris and Aurora), APS cryolab (cryo and thin section sample preparation), MESBPG laboratories (environmental sample preparation) and CNM (electron microscopy, chemical and nanoparticle synthesis, or other tools supporting x-ray-based measurements). All accessible laboratories are furnished with standard and specialized equipment for chemical and microbiological experiments, including under anaerobic conditions, as well as sample storage space.
To gain access to any of the following resources, submit a proposal to eBERlight.
Advanced Protein Characterization Facility (APCF)
The APCF (Sector 84) is a state-of-the-art laboratory for protein research. The APCF hosts a HTP structural biology pipeline composed of highly integrated core-technology units that include bioinformatics, robotic gene cloning, protein expression, purification, characterization, crystallization, and structure determination. The APCF also hosts a microfluidics laboratory managed by Argonne’s Biosciences Division and accessible to eBERlight.
The APCF is open for users during the APS shutdown. Submit an ESAF for Sector 84.
APS Cryolab
The APS cryolab is self-sufficient for cryogenic preparation and evaluation of biological samples: from bacteria, algae, and cultured mammalian cells to mammalian tissues and organs.
Molecular Environmental Science and Biogeochemical Process Group Laboratories (MESBPG) and Ecosystem Biogeochemistry Group (EBG)
The MESBPG facility has over 3,200 square ft of laboratory space designed for a wide variety of (micro)biological and biogeochemical experiments. Equipment for handling physically, chemically, or biologically dynamic samples.
The EBG in Argonne’s Environmental Science Division has two U.S. Cooler walk-in freezer rooms (10 ft x 10 ft/each) in that are available for storage and the handling/processing of soils in a frozen state (-20°C). Both rooms are equipped with internal electrical outlets and extra overhead LED to accommodate sample preparation.
Additional Resources
These resources are available with approved user access and an Experimental Safety Assessment Form (ESAF) by the APS.
Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM)
The CNM is a premier research and user facility that provides tools and infrastructure for nanoscience and nanotechnology research. CNM offers more than 150 in-house tools and capabilities designed to enhance the study and creation of nanomaterials. The user community can expect the use of focused ion beam (FIB), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy and protein functionalization tools.
Advanced Leadership Computing Facility (ALCF)
The ALCF, established in 2006 and managed by the Computing, Environment, and Life Sciences directorate (CELS), provides the most powerful supercomputers in the world for open scientific research. ALCF resources include leadership-class exascale supercomputers, visualization clusters, advanced data storage systems, high-performance networking capabilities, and a wide variety of software tools and services to help facility users achieve their science goals. The co-location of eBERlight and ALCF provides an unprecedented opportunity for collaboration.
The Biological and Environmental Research (BER). Program supports 10 structural biology and imaging resources available to the scientific community advancing research in scientific discovery, innovation, energy security, and environmental responsibility.