The James Franck Institute houses a number of Shared Research Facilities providing crucial support for evolving scientific and technical needs. Interactions that take place within these facilities often lead to collaborative efforts between different research groups.
AI+Quantitative Imaging Facility
Faculty Supervisor: Aaron Dinner
Technical Staff: Liya Ding
The AI+ Quantitative Imaging Shared Facility aims to advance microscopy image processing and analysis through the development and application of computer vision, AI, and deep learning techniques. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Data Science Institute (DSI) and the Center for Living Systems (CLS) at the University of Chicago.
Materials Preparation & Measurement Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Heinrich Jaeger
Technical Staff: Justin Jureller, Sarah Brown, Krysten Villalon
The Materials Preparation and Measurement Laboratory (MPML) provides facilities for preparation, fabrication, processing, and characterization of many types of samples. Instrumentation includes scanning probe microscopes (AFM and STM), scanning electron microscopes (SEM), 3D optical imaging, sample preparation, surface coating, thermal characterization, optical characterization via steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence, absorbance, reflectance, Raman, and light scattering.
The MPML is open to all interested internal academic, external academic, and industrial users. A key aspect of the lab is extensive one-on-one training with experienced PhD-level staff.
JFI Student Machine Shop
Faculty Supervisor: Andrew Higginbotham
Manager: Luigi Mazzenga
Our fully equipped student machine shop plays a vital role in training students, and postdocs in the basics of machining and fabrication, and gives researchers the flexibility to design and produce machined parts and research prototypes. Equipment includes several Bridgeport mills, Hardinge lathes, a CAD workstation, and a welding station. The shop has been tremendously successful due to exceptionally qualified staff available for consultation and training. A Tormach PCNC milling machine and a Protomax personal waterjet were recently added.All students must complete training before working in the shop. To schedule training, please reach out to Luigi Mazzenga. Supervised hours: Wednesday and Thursday 9am to 2pm.