CHAPEL HILL, N.C., June 3, 2010 – The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill today opened the doors of a new facility designed to be one of the world's most sophisticated research centers devoted to life science imaging. The new UNC-Olympus Research Imaging Center provides researchers with advanced microscopes and camera equipment, software, consultation and expertise, in an environment intended to encourage the highest levels of scientific inquiry. The center is designed to stimulate collaboration among top life science research faculty members and will be available to guest researchers as well.
The new imaging center has been endowed by Olympus America Inc., Center Valley, Pa., which is providing comprehensive imaging systems featuring state-of-the-art research microscopes, confocal instruments, digital imaging equipment, intravital imaging tools, incubation microscopes, software and substantial ongoing staffing and technical support.
The Center, which comprises nearly 2000 square feet of dedicated space, is operating under co-directors Ken Jacobson, Ph.D., Kenan Distinguished Professor of Cell and Developmental Biology, and James E. Bear, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Early Career Scientist of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Both are affiliated with the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at the UNC School of Medicine and the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Researchers using the Center work in cell biology, neuroscience, pharmacology and other specialties that contribute to the study of cancer, Alzheimer's Disease and other conditions.
"The UNC-Olympus Research Imaging Center offers researchers much more than equipment, support and space. It is a place where principal investigators are actively interacting through structured consultation and collaboration, using the highest level of imaging technology available today," said Dr. Bear.
"This shared vision, which is generously supported by our partner Olympus, promises to drive innovation in both our experimental approaches and in the field of microscopy, and represents the best spirit of our desire to push forward the frontier of knowledge," Dr. Bear continued. "With Olympus instrumentation, knowledge, commitment and support, and because of the goals we share, we have become partners in this endeavor."
"We are pleased to be deeply involved with UNC's new imaging center because it allows us to support advanced microscopy imaging in the heart of one of the most prestigious and creative bioscience institutions in the world," said Osamu Joji, group vice president and general manager, Scientific Equipment Group, Olympus America Inc. "Since UNC's Dr. Klaus Hahn first contacted Olympus to discuss this project four years ago, we have worked closely with the university toward a shared vision. This center allows us to be closer to the vital process of scientific discovery and ultimately to better serve the needs of scientists across the U.S."
The center's doors opened today, marking the Grand Opening with a reception, tours and scientific presentations by UNC scientists Drs. Klaus Hahn and Nancy Allbritton. Along with Olympus, several other organizations were recognized at the opening for their contributions, including Hamamatsu Corporation, manufacturer of scientific cameras, and Prior Scientific.
About the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the nation's first public university, serves North Carolina, the United States and the world through teaching, research and public service. The mission is to serve as a center for research, scholarship and creativity and to teach a diverse community of undergraduate, graduate and professional students to become the next generation of leaders.
Part of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center was established in 1975. UNC Lineberger is the only public comprehensive cancer center for the State and the people of North Carolina. The mission is to reduce cancer occurrence and death in North Carolina and across the nation through research, treatment, training and outreach. The N.C. Cancer Hospital - part of UNC Health Care - is the cancer center's clinical home. As one of only 40 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers nationwide, UNC Lineberger is at the center of an unprecedented effort to make strides against cancer and the suffering it causes.
About Olympus America's Scientific Equipment Group
Olympus America Scientific Equipment Group provides innovative microscope imaging solutions for researchers, doctors, clinicians and educators. Olympus microscope systems offer unsurpassed optics, superior construction and system versatility to meet the ever-changing needs of microscopists, paving the way for future advances in life science. Visit http://www.olympusamerica.com/microscopes.
About Olympus
Olympus is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering innovative solutions in its core business areas: Medical and Surgical Products, Life Science Imaging Systems, Industrial Testing Instruments and Cameras and Audio Products.
Olympus works collaboratively with its customers and affiliates worldwide to leverage R&D investment in precision technology and manufacturing processes across diverse business lines. These include:
- Gastrointestinal endoscopes, accessories, and minimally invasive surgical products
- Advanced research, clinical and educational microscopes and clinical digital imaging systems;
- Industrial research, engineering, test, inspection and measuring instruments; and
- Digital cameras and voice recorders.
Olympus serves the healthcare field with integrated product solutions and financial, educational and consulting services that help customers to efficiently, reliably and more easily achieve exceptional results. Olympus develops breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality for the consumer and professional photography markets, and also is the leader in gastrointestinal endoscopy and clinical and educational microscopes. For more information, visit www.olympusamerica.com.