MBL Welcomes Black Imaging Scientists for PAIR-UP Workshop

From May 13-17, the MBL welcomed members of PAIR-UP for training in advanced light sheet microscopy techniques. PAIR-UP, which stands for “Partnering to Advance Imaging Research for Underrepresented Minority Scientists Program,” was founded in 2020 and is a consortium of Black imaging scientists in the biomedical sciences.

The workshop participants got hands-on experience using light sheet microscopy in the MBL’s state-of-the-art facilities. They also learned how best to prepare samples, analyze data, and how best to match their biological samples with the correct microscope.

“Light sheet microscopy is being used across the spectrum of biological research and we partnered with the PAIR-UP group to host this hands-on workshop to train scientists so that they are well prepared to utilize this technology for their research,” said Abhishek Kumar, MBL investigator and Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) imaging scientist at MBL. 

Scroll through these photos to see some highlights from the workshop. 

Photo Credit: Dee Sullivan

Events like the PAIR-UP workshop and the annual Light-Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy Conference (LSFM) support MBL’s strategic Imaging Innovation Initiative to develop and facilitate the use of imaging tools for biological research.

“As part of MBL's Strategic Initiative, we are committed to advance the light sheet development, dissemination and equitable access to scientists from diverse backgrounds,” said Kumar. “Hosting this workshop at the MBL is one such example of our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.”

PAIR-UP is supported by Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the Burroughs Wellcome Fund (BWF), and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI). These foundations also provide generous support to the MBL.