MEG Laboratories

 

The labs of the MEG at the IRSA-Verbania are equipped for most of the analyses required in microbial ecology. Spaces are divided in (i) MicroMEG: microscopy room (ii) MoBiMEG: molecular biology lab(s) (iii) WetMEG: wet lab and microbiology lab (iv) CliMEG: experimental culture rooms. The MEG is also hosting a multiservice virtual space, the MEGIT, and the microorganisms culture collection of the group, the MEGIC. MEG facilities include epifluorescence and inverted microscopes (Zeiss), stereomicroscopes (Olympus), an automated homogenizer (Precellys), PCR and RT-PCR machines and related tools (Bio-Rad), centrifuges, microcentrifuges (Eppendorf) and Speed Vac systems, an automated DNA extraction Robot (Qiagen), a microplate flow-cytometer (Beckman) and an in-line flow-cytometer (BD), an automated spectrofluorimetric plate reader (Promega), carbon and phosphorus measuring instruments (Shimadzu), a multiparametric pelagic probe (Idronaut Ocean Seven), a phyto-pam (Walz), a 12-vessels chemostat (VT Italy, Watson-Marlow), six benches (for microbiology, chemistry, cultivation, PCR and RT-PCR), two climatized rooms, freezer and refrigerators (including a -80°C), and a number of other devices including micro and mesocosms.

A dedicated high-performance computer is available for advanced phylogenetic, genomic and metagenomic analysis.

The shared instrumentation at the IRSA includes a dedicated boat on Lake Maggiore, equipped for offshore sampling and in situ measurements, two large artificial experimental ponds, sampling boats, a guesthouse, a 70 places seminar room, cars and a minivan.