Services

UGent offers are centred around seaweed aquaculture, lab-based experimental facilities, model organisms and associated technology platforms.

UGent – Phycology Research Group: (1) growth chambers fit to set up lab-scale experiments in volumes up to 2 L, and larger pilot-scale experiments (200 L). The associated research infrastructure includes access to molecular lab facilities (strain identification), time-lapse and fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry and PAM-fluorescence.

Bioresources available

Macro-algal strains of commercial crop species (e.g. Porphyra, Palmaria, Saccharina, Undaria, Ulva) and seaweed-associated bacteria. In addition we maintain cultures of several model organisms (e.g. Dictyotales).

Support offered

For each request, the Access Manager will make sure that logistical, technical and scientific support is available. Visitors receive lab space, necessary access to buildings and facilities and can use them independently following clear instructions on the use of the facilities. When research with living animals is planned, the necessary certificates are required. A typical procedure for access involved initial joint planning (if possible: video conferencing), followed by TA attending the set-up and/or finalisation of the work. If the service request involves longer monitoring or routine activities, they can be executed by local staff only. Finalisation of the work includes collecting samples and data and arranging storage and transport of material. Note that all paperwork related to these activities are the responsibility of the user. Apart from logistical, technical and scientific support, users will be invited to participate in local scientific and social activities with the aim of fostering cooperation.

Modality of access

Access duration is service dependent ranging from weeks to months. For long-term experiments, users are expected to be present at least at the start and end of the service. Users will have the possibility to collect the raw experimental/analytical data. Upon request, data analysis or interpretation in cooperation with a local research group can be explored. The research visit should result in open data, scientific papers and communications and patents. Users will be stimulated to interact with Master students and early career scientists and invited to a guest lecture at the receiving institute.