Frequently Asked Questions
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1. I have a project that requires in vivo animal imaging. How do I get approval to image mice?
IACUC protocol approval is needed prior to starting animal imaging projects. Animal protocols need to be linked to the appropriate SAIF IACUC number, and a brief description of the imaging should be provided. Specific information about locations and reagents can be directed to the SAIF manager. If you are a first-time facility user, an account form should be submitted to the core.
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2. I have students who would like to image animals in the SAIF. What steps do they need to take to start imaging?
UAB personnel and students need to be trained before imaging in the SAIF. Training verification forms needs to be submitted for each person who will image.
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3. Can I image on all of the imaging lab equipment?
The IVIS Lumina is available to all trained users. Independent imaging on magnetic or nuclear instrumentation is addressed on a case by case basis.
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4. I’ve completed all of the training. Why doesn’t my badge allow me access to the imaging facility?
Badge access is approved by Animal Resources. ARP Operations Manager, Samm Bartee, verifies your IACUC and SAIF training status prior to approval.
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5. I have a few other colleagues who would like to see the facility. Can they come with me?
Visitors are allowed to the facility only by approval from the Core Director. The facility does provide tours to groups of similar interests.
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6. I have access and approval to use the imaging facility. How do I schedule my imaging appointments?
An imaging calendar link will be provided to you upon successful training and appropriate facility documentation.
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7. I have to image my animals late at night for a time point. What are the facility hours?
Facility access is available 24 hours a day. Please note that during non-business hours it may be difficult to contact core personnel if there are technical difficulties.
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8. My animals are in a different building and I don’t have a way to safely transport them to the imaging facility. How will I be able to image them?
We encourage you to use the ARP animal transport service, which is free of charge. This is the safest way to transport your animals on campus. The SAIF has holding rooms for animal cages in each location.
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9. I have imaged in the facility before, but now I have a new boss. Can I still image in the facility?
We welcome previous users happily. We request an updated training form so we know who your new PI is. If it has been a few years since you imaged, we encourage you to watch the training video or request a training session from the facility staff.