Description

CSDE’s Biodemography Laboratory, in partnership with the Department of Anthropology, provides researchers access to a fully equipped laboratory for population-based biomarker research. The lab specializes in developing and optimizing assays and methods for handling, processing, and analysis of biological specimens collected in field settings.

Lab users have access to the 3-room suite with Biosafety Level 2 lab facilities and a dedicated office and meeting area. The lab has developed and/or adopted assay methods to measure biochemical analytes or genetic markers in serum, plasma, dried blood spots, saliva, hair, nail, stool, and urine specimens using immunoassay and PCR-based methods. Skilled staff are available for carrying out the biomarker analyses.

Biodemography Laboratory staff also provide consultation for all phases of research including choice of biomarkers, sampling strategies, specimen collection methods, and training in lab methods. The lab also maintains a library of instruments for point-of-care testing and anthropometric and functional measurement. These instruments are available for rental, and lab staff provide training in data collection methods using these instruments.

Key Words

Biomarkers, Population Health, Biospecimen Collection, Lab Services, Scientific Consulting, Research Design, Immunoassays, Molecular Analysis, DNA Isolation