This National Science Foundation (NSF) Engineering Program (CFDA 47.041) Project Grant award of $373,783 to Boise State University will fund the acquisition of an integrated atomic force microscope/confocal microscope (AFMC) system. The objective is to provide advanced imaging and characterization capabilities to support bioengineering and materials science research at the university and across the broader Mountain West and Pacific Northwest regions.
The AFMC system will enable simultaneous high-resolution optical, morphological, and mechanobiological analysis of live cells, tissues, and biomolecular constructs. This first-of-its-kind instrument in the region will significantly enhance the university's research infrastructure and lead to cutting-edge multidisciplinary studies, while also providing valuable training opportunities for student researchers. The award will contribute to developing a skilled STEM workforce and attracting biotechnology industry to the Boise area. This project is jointly funded with the NSF's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) program.