Sample Dropoff Procedures:
We are located in Bridgeside Point II, by Hot Metal Bridge. Street parking is available on Technology Drive. There is also a parking garage located across the street.
The BSPII and 40A shuttles both stop at Bridgeside Point II.
Users outside of Bridgeside Point II must check in with the front desk security officer. Inform them you are dropping off or picking up for histology, and a laboratory member will meet you in the lobby.
FAQ:
- How do I submit samples?
Tissue to be embedded must be in a sealed container labeled with the researcher's name and solution the tissue is currently stored in (ex. 10% NBF, 70% EtOH, etc.). Additional instructions can be found at: How to Submit Tissue to McGowan Histology Core.
- How do I drop off samples?
Samples can be dropped off from 10AM–1PM Tuesday through Friday. If you need to come outside of those times, please email the core lab to arrange a different time.
- I want a special orientation for my samples. How do I let the lab know?
- If you are looking for a specific orientation, you can attach a drawing or write a description of your instructions in the iLab order form.
- To maintain a specific orientation, samples should be placed into cassettes. The tissue surface that is placed down in the cassette will be placed down in the tissue block, and this is the surface that is sectioned first.
- Core lab staff is available to discuss best collection and storage practices.
- How do I submit an order in iLab?
Please refer to the Submission Forms and iLab page for instructions.
- iLab won't let me submit my order form. What am I doing wrong?
Please review the form to ensure that any field with a red asterisk is completed. These are required fields.
- How long is your turnaround time?
Standard projects are typically completed within two weeks of sample dropoff. This timeframe may vary depending on the current workload and staffing. Please let the histology core know if you need samples by a certain date.
- Can I get my project completed faster?
We offer a rush service. The average turnaround time for a rush project is one week. A rush fee of 25% of the total project cost is added to the project.
Rush turnaround time may vary depending on the size of the project and current workload.
- How do I know when my samples are done?
You will receive an email when your samples are ready for pickup.
- I need IHC but don't know what antibody to order. Can you help?
We can suggest antibodies to use for your project. Please email or schedule a call with our laboratory staff to discuss your project needs.
- Can I submit an order form without an account number?
No, iLab will not let you submit an order without an account number.
- My grant is ending. Can you pre-bill my account for work?
No. We can only bill for work that has been completed. We can accept samples and give you a copy of the invoice with the sample submission date. If the samples are submitted before your account end date, you can work with your financial administrator to submit it as a trailing charge.