DNA Sequencer

The sequencers were contracted by Professor Lloyd Smith, involved in the Human Genome Project. The goal of this project is to determine the genetic makeup of all human chromosomes, and is a collaborative effort involving many national laboratories. This research will contribute to the prevention and/or cure of genetic diseases and allow physicians to prescribe medicines that specifically target each patient's individual genetic makeup.

Each sequencer has two plates of glass containing a gel between them with 96 vertical lanes in the gel. The DNA is loaded into the gel and an electrical current is applied to the gel. The current draws the pieces of DNA downward, with the shorter pieces moving faster and coming out the bottom first. The length of the segments allows researchers to figure out where the bases are located on the strand of DNA. It takes numerous runs and many samples to determine the sequence of all the bases on a particular chromosome.

Six frames and enclosures, including gel towers, scanning mechanisms, and optical parts were contracted with PSL.

Waisman Center Spherical Speaker Mount

The speaker array is used for research on the acuity of positional hearing, and assessments of hearing abilities of individuals.