Access to NC State’s unique and top-notch research facilities provides a direct competitive advantage to our innovative research. Learn more about these facilities that offer our researchers state-of-the-art equipment and resources to enhance their ability to solve complex problems in agriculture.
Core Facilities
The Plant Sciences Building (PSB) is home to three NC State core facilities, which enhance our ability to perform next-generation research across multidisciplinary teams. The Molecular Education, Technology and Research Innovation Center (METRIC), the Cellular and Molecular Imaging Facility (CMIF), and the Genomic Sciences Laboratory (GSL) provide some of the world’s most advanced instruments for research across campus. Each of these facilities is staffed by scientists who offer hands-on training, specialized project services and consultation.
METRIC
The Molecular Education, Technology and Research Innovation Center (METRIC) houses state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting edge analytical instrumentation, such as magnetic resonance and X-ray crystallography, for molecular and OMICS-based workflows. METRIC’s satellite location in PSB offers unique capabilities in proteomics, metabolomics and VOC analysis aimed at meeting the needs of plant scientists. Experienced METRIC scientists provide support in experimental design and sample preparation.
Cellular and Molecular Imaging Facility
The Cellular and Molecular Imaging Facility (CMIF) at NC State provides state-of-the-art imaging equipment, including confocal microscopes with FLIM/FRET, laser microdissection system and a slide scanner, to support research within the building, across campus, and beyond. The experienced CMIF staff provides expert training and support for all imaging projects.
Genomics Sciences Lab
The Genomic Sciences Laboratory (GSL) offers the latest equipment and infrastructure required to conduct advanced genomics research. The GSL provides access to high-throughput DNA sequencing, traditional Sanger sequencing and genotyping, equipment services for functional genomic assays and high-throughput instrumentation to facilitate the handling of large numbers of samples. They also provide sample preparation services, training and shared equipment resources.
Other Building Research Facilities
PSB Greenhouse
The Plant Sciences Building has 11 highly flexible, state-of-the-art rooftop greenhouses to support a wide range of research needs. Managed by NC State’s Phytotron, these greenhouses were designed to ensure more efficient and successful experimentation by minimizing outside variables. Additionally, one of the greenhouses is an officially designated Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) area. The PSB also features several controlled environment growth rooms and chambers.
N.C. PSI Makerspace
The N.C. PSI Makerspace is a lab and service center for rapid prototyping of low-cost custom hardware and software solutions for monitoring plant and crop systems across agricultural scales. It is fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology, tools and equipment to enable collaborations among N.C. PSI researchers from different disciplines. It is the only Makerspace lab on NC State’s campus dedicated exclusively to the support of interdisciplinary research in agriculture.
Plant Transformation Lab
The Plant Transformation Laboratory provides service to and collaborates with researchers who seek to use gene editing, transformation and tissue culture technologies. The lab develops new and optimizes existing plant regeneration and transformation protocols for various species. With recent technological advancements, much of the lab’s work involves performing CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome modifications. The lab operates in NC State’s Phytotron and the Plant Sciences Building.
Demo Lab
The Demo Lab, located on the first floor of the Plant Sciences Building, is a central component of the N.C. PSI. This state-of-the-art space is designed to showcase ongoing N.C. PSI research projects to the public and serves as a hands-on educational area for students, teachers, extension agents, and other groups. It also facilitates training and enables technology transfer from the lab to growers.
