The Image and Data Acquisition Core

The Image and Data Acquisition Core (IDAC) at the University of Idaho is a fee-for-service facility managed by the Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation (IMCI) and available for on-campus and off-campus researchers.  The IDAC is dedicated to creating opportunities for high-resolution imaging and high-throughput characterization of biological processes.  The IDAC consolidates two confocal microscopes, an analytical flow cytometer and analysis software programs into one shared resource facility available for all UI research.  An experienced microscopist, Dr. Onesmo Balemba, IDAC Director, provides expertise in experimental design, image capture, cytometric acquisition and data analysis. IDAC Manager, Jordan Rumford, is responsible for running the IDAC facility, working directly with IDAC users and managing facility equipment. With this infrastructure and staffing, the IDAC is able to support a diverse range of research projects.

IDAC Infrastructure

The Image and Data Acquisition Core advances research at the University of Idaho and in the surrounding community by providing equipment and expertise in confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and microbial colony handling.  
IDAC’s infrastructure spans four core areas: 

Advanced Microscopy  
IDAC has four confocal and multiphoton microscopes for imaging biological samples, including live or fixed biofilms, cells, tissues and small organisms. 

Cytometry and Cell Sorting  
Two flow cytometers are available for high-throughput counting and characterization of dissociated cells, including the Bigfoot Spectral Cell Sorter with 5 lasers and 55 detectors, enabling high-efficiency, high-speed multi-way sorting. The Bigfoot Cell Sorter configuration enables the creation of diverse and complex panels. Its biocontainment cabinet protects sorted cells, allowing them to be cultured.  

Microbial Colony Handling  
The Phenobooth+ and two Rotors (one newly acquired) optimize and automate colony counting, colony replication, colony mating and screening.

Data Storage and Analysis 
Thinkmate SuperStorage servers and dedicated workstations allow investigators to store and analyze data using NIS-Elements, Imaris and Kaluza. The main laboratory also includes a refrigerator, a biosafety hood, a fume hood and a small incubator.