BIO Open Lab strengthens the distributed research infrastructure CERIC – Central European Research Infrastructure Consortium, established in the legal form of an ERIC – European Research Infrastructure Consortium, creating an integrated system of research equipment and tools dedicated to investigations in the area of biological and biomedical research.
Specifically, equipment and tools are connected to the following investigative techniques.

1. Next Generation Sequencing (at Area Science Park): next-generation sequencing platform in the field of genomics and epigenomics, for investigation into molecular and biological mechanisms, with applications in the field of predictive medicine and healthcare
2. Digital Holographic Microscopy (at the University of Salento): low-dose instrumentation for integration with CERIC-ERIC advanced microscopy techniques
3. Mass Spectrometry (at the University of Salerno): instrumentation for analysing mapping of molecular masses and determining the structural formula of biologically interesting compounds, with applications in the field of metabolomics
4. Scientific Computing (at University of Salerno): IT infrastructure that operates as a Scientific Computing Centre, capable of providing resources and services, meeting the needs of data analysis and archiving of data processed by different Research Infrastructure components.

The BIO Open Lab project reduces fragmentation and duplication of tools through the sharing and networking of medium-sized facilities, coordinated and united in a community founded on exchange and synergy to increase accessibility and promote service expertise and capabilities.

What results can we expect?
The project develops a system supporting clinical investigation, optimising the development of knowledge regarding the individual molecular actor (protein or metabolite), beginning with its structural analysis through structural-biology experiments with holography electron microscopy, utilising histological mapping with imaging techniques through mass spectrometry and finally employing genomic and epigenomic methods focused on “the control system” of the entire protein expression mechanism.

The project notably increases the scientific capabilities of infrastructure in the life sciences field, offering scientists the opportunity to access cutting-edge instrumentation with the ability to develop new techniques and paradigms, with a significant impact on the efficiency and excellence of biological research. This will contribute to an increase in the CERIC-ERIC user pool, notably increasing requests for use from biologists, biotechnologists, biochemists, molecular biologists, pharmacologists and doctors.

The offer of an integrated system enables a single biological problem to be approached from various perspectives (covering a wide range of techniques, from genomics to spectroscopic and microscopic analysis). Above all, it generates the ability to coherently integrate results, thanks to access to advanced computing technology and great computing capacity, representing a unique initiative in the national and international context.

Project phases
The following activities are planned:
1. evaluation of tools available on the market
2. quantitative considerations and definition of requirements for correct installation
3. adaptation and upgrading of rooms and technical systems
4. acquisition of tools
5. installation in labs
6. opening of infrastructure to multiple public and private entities through open processes implemented by CERIC-ERIC and Area Science Park through the “Open Lab” methodology.

Project partners

• Area Science Park – lead partner
• University of Salerno: Department of Pharmacy and Department of Information and Electrical Engineering and Applied Mathematics
• University of Salento

The project has received funding from the European Union, European Regional Development Fund, National Operational Programme on Research and Innovation 2014–2020, totalling € 1,095,000.
(www.ponricerca.gov.it)

Contacts

Stefano Cozzini
Research and Technologies Institute Director
Area Science Park
stefano.cozzini@areasciencepark.it