User Testimonials

Feedback from our users

I have worked with the CSCI flow cytometry core for various types of experiments and I could not be happier with the results or experience! Most of my experiments have involved sorting proprioceptive sensory neurons neurons (both embryonic and adult) into 96-well plates for single cell RNAseq. Our scRNA sequencing consistently detects about 6,000-8,500 genes/cell, indicating that the equipment (FACSAria “Jupiter" in my case) does not have a negative impact on the viability of the sorted neurons. In addition, the facility is extremely accommodating with respect to scheduling, and it's manager (Mike Kissner) is very much adept in optimizing sorting parameters if need be. It's very clear that Mike really cares just as much– if not more! - about the results as I do!

Joriene De Nooij, Motor Neuron Center

My experiments take months to set up making every FACS sample precious. However, the care, thoroughness and level of knowledge at the CSI core make me confident that I will obtain the best possible results from each experiment! I have been sorting fluorescently labeled, primary cortical neurons for both single cell and bulk sequencing. The RNA quality for bulk sorts always yields high RIN values and concentrations consistent with the number of sorted cells, and the viability for my 10x single cell seq has been up to 80% (which is amazing for my finicky cells)! While the results speak for themselves, it is Mike’s dedication to the success of my experiments which have made it a pleasure to sort at the CSI core. My sorts always begin on time, and Mike is very accommodating with scheduling, allowing everyone to maximize their time with the sorters. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the core to anyone. No matter how complicated or stressful your sort, you will feel that your cells are in good hands!

Marcela Carmona, Rui Costa Lab

The CSCI Flow Core is reliable, flexible and easy to use. I’ve been using the BD ARIAs for both sorting and flow cytometry, and I can sign up for as little as 30 minutes because I know that each time the machine is up and running, has been calibrated and is ready to use. I appreciate that the machines are maintained in excellent condition: I’ve sorted live cells for both continued culture as well as for single-cell sequencing on the 10X Genomics platform, both of which yielded good results. I’ve also been able to extract high-quality RNA from fixed, immunostained and sorted cells using both the ARIAs without having to prep the machine separately to reduce RNase contamination. Most importantly, the staff are amazing - Mike and Daniel are always available (even by phone if they are away) to help out if anything comes up, and I’ve also been able to learn a lot about the machines and their various uses from conversations with them.

Sumin Jang, Hynek Wichterle Lab