The Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst has received two grants totaling nearly $3.6 million from the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) to acquire a next-generation mass spectrometer for molecular research and a cutting-edge two-photon 3D printing system for precision biofabrication. The investments, through MLSC’s Research Infrastructure Program, will significantly expand the university’s research, training and industry collaboration capabilities.
The IALS Mass Spectrometry Core Facility has received a $1.98 million award for a timsTOF fleX mass spectrometer from Bruker Scientific. The instrument will enhance “omics” research across a range of disciplines by enabling highly sensitive and detailed studies in proteomics, metabolomics and spatialomics—fields that examine how proteins, metabolites and other molecules change in response to factors such as disease, environmental exposure and medical treatments.
A second award of over $1.58 million will support the acquisition of an UpNano NanoOne Bio two-photon polymerization direct laser writing 3D printer and related characterization tools for the Advanced Digital Design and Fabrication Core Facility (ADDFab) at IALS. The project is led by Sunandita Sarker, assistant professor of mechanical and industrial engineering, in collaboration with faculty and facility leadership at IALS.
Together, the two MLSC-funded investments reinforce UMass Amherst’s role as a regional hub for life sciences research, advanced manufacturing and workforce development, while supporting innovation and economic growth throughout the commonwealth.