New equipment at YSU: Boosting the quality of scientific research

YSU Research Institute of Biology has received new equipment as part of the "Acquisition of Scientific Devices/Equipment" competition, providing new opportunities for students and researchers to conduct scientific research. According to the institute's Director, Karen Trchounian, state-of-the-art equipment has been successfully acquired over the past two years through large grant programs. This achievement will play a crucial role in modernizing the technical infrastructure of the laboratories, significantly enhancing the quality of scientific research.

Introduction of Latest Equipment in Laboratory Work

The laboratories at the Research Institute of Biology have been replenished with a number of important equipment. The Laboratory of Microbiology, Bioenergetics and Biotechnology has acquired a shaking incubator with temperature and cooling control, designed for microbial cultivation, as well as a system for online monitoring.

In addition, a mass detector has been acquired for both gas and liquid chromatography, intended for the analysis of unknown substances in liquid and gaseous environments. The device allows for the rapid and efficient determination of the composition of the environment. To break down cellular materials and obtain extracts, a French press has been acquired. As part of the modernization process, a gene expression chip system will also be introduced, designed for studies on the gene expression of Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this system, cells are placed on the chip, and their activity can be monitored in real-time. This equipment is expected to be acquired in 2025.

"Among the new equipment, we also have high-capacity thermostats, fluorescent microscopes, and other essential devices for daily use, which are employed in conducting various scientific experiments and research," added K. Trchounian.

Accessibility and Education for Students

Both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as young researchers, have the opportunity to use the equipment.

"Students learn the rules for using the equipment during laboratory work. We provide laboratory manuals that give detailed instructions on how to connect, disconnect, and operate the devices," said the director of the institute.

Manual Modernization Programs

Karen Trchounian outlined plans to update laboratory manuals to reflect new equipment.

"Currently, the manuals are available both in libraries and online, ensuring access to necessary information for everyone," he explained.

Prospects for Modernizing the Material and Technical Base of Scientific Departments

In 2024, the Research Institute of Biology participated in several grant programs aimed at acquiring scientific equipment, funded by the Higher Education and Science Committee of the RA MoESCS. According to Karen Trchounian, the applications submitted as part of these grant programs covered both small devices (valued up to 20 million AMD) and larger equipment.

"We submitted our applications in 2023 and received funding in 2024. Additionally, we have applied again in 2024 and are expecting to receive new equipment later this year," he noted.