Robert Gordon University has provided new equipment to drive forward studies into cancer treatment after receiving financial help from a north-east charity.
The new flow cytometer, a machine that can measure physical and chemical characteristics of a population of cells or particles, is now in place at the School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences department of the university’s Garthdee campus.
Costing around £62,000, Friends of Anchor pledged approximately £24,000 so that the facility could purchase a superior model.
The upgraded equipment uses violet light to examine microscopic nanoparticles.
Dr Maria Goua who along with her colleague Dr Giovanna Bermano had approached the charity for funding, said: “This instrument is enabling scientists within the university to further cancer research by gaining a better understanding of how novel drugs and nutrients can affect cancer treatment and prevention.
“It will greatly benefit the training of the next generation of applied biomedical scientists on cancer diagnostics, blood analysis and haematology, which is fantastic news for future research and brings real longevity to the investment.”
As well as playing a part in cancer and haematology studies in the city, the flow cytometer will link into collaborative research being carried by academics across the world.
Friends of Anchor director Sarah-Jane Hogg added: “Research is one of our four core funding areas and this latest investment will help to kick things up a gear and take studies to the next level, benefitting both current and future research right here in the north-east.”