Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

We are requesting support to purchase a research calibre upright light microscope equipped with accessories such as fluorescence, polarizing analyser, digital camera, computer with imaging software for advanced image analysis. We will use this microscope in our studies of the structure and function of advanced food materials, delivery matrices for bioactive compounds including nutraceuticals, antimicrobials and probiotics, tissue engineering and activities of microorganisms in food systems. This microscope will be located in the department's multiuser Biosafety Level 2 microbiology laboratory and serve as a work horse for all associated faculty members and their HQP in training. Briefly, our research covers a wide range of areas in food chemistry, food engineering, biomaterials, biomedical engineering, fermentation and food microbiology.