The UTMB Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Core Facility is dedicated to supporting the UTMB research community by providing access to state-of-the-art flow cytometry instrumentation, high-speed cell sorting capabilities, and expert technical support. Our mission is to enable high-quality, reproducible cytometric data and to assist investigators at every stage of their experimental workflow.

Our facility is equipped with advanced multi-laser flow cytometers capable of acquiring high-dimensional optical measurements with precision and sensitivity. These instruments allow for simultaneous detection of multiple fluorophores, enabling detailed phenotypic and functional analysis of complex cell populations. Applications supported by the Core include immunophenotyping, cell cycle analysis, apoptosis assays, functional studies, and fluorescence-based quantification across a wide range of biological samples.

Investigators typically prepare and process their own samples using established or customized protocols and then bring them to the Core Facility for analytical flow cytometry or high-speed cell sorting. Both self-operated and staff-assisted analytical services are available, depending on the investigator’s experience level and experimental needs. Cell sorting procedures are performed in collaboration with trained facility personnel to ensure optimal purity, viability, and biosafety.

The Core Facility places a strong emphasis on education and collaboration. Comprehensive training is available for investigators who wish to independently operate analytical instruments, including hands-on instruction in instrument setup, acquisition, quality control, and troubleshooting. In addition, the Facility provides guidance and support for data analysis using industry-standard software packages.

Beyond instrument access, the Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Core serves as a scientific resource for experimental planning. Facility staff offer consultation and assistance with protocol development, implementation of new assays, experimental design, antibody and fluorophore panel design, and optimization strategies. Support is also available for downstream data analysis, interpretation, and presentation.

By combining cutting-edge technology with expert consultation and training, the UTMB Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Core Facility helps investigators efficiently generate robust, high-quality cytometric data in support of basic, translational, and clinical research programs.