Q. If there are no available appointments, can I "squeeze" into the schedule?
A. No. We tried this during our first year of operation and it was a disaster. Even if it were, on occasion, possible to do this, try to imagine the chaos that would result in a core lab, if this common request were to be granted every time someone asked.
Q. What if someone is using the instrument during time that I reserved?
A. Any user has the right to insist that their experiment begin according to the published schedule. They may choose to give up some of their time, but it is not required.
Q. Where is the schedule for the Aria (the cell sorter) published?
A. It is published at the same place as the schedule for the Canto. (http://microbiology.utmb.edu/core/flowcore/schedule/curSched.shtml). However, you might need to scroll down on your computer screen to view the schedule for the Aria since it is below the one for the Canto, and most computer screens show only the top part of the page.
Q. What does "No Assistance" mean on the published schedule?
A. The words "No Assistance" on the schedule mean that the flow operator's time is not available to run the FACScan. The FACScan is now reserved exclusively for independent users. The flow lab operator does not run the FACScan anymore.
Q. What does "Unavailable" mean?
A. The flow lab operator is running or assisting in an experiment on either the FACSCanto or FACSAria, and cannot run the other instrument simultaneously. This is a simple consequence of having only one operator and two instruments.
Q. Can I book an experiment after 5 PM or on the weekends or holidays?
A. The lab closes at 5 PM. Experiments must end no later than 5 PM. There is no lab access on nights, or weekends, or holidays. This rule does not apply to recognized independent users of the FACSCAN; as long as they sign out the spare lab key in advance and are only expecting access to the FACScan (see the last question below).
Q. Can the flow lab put me on standby, in case time becomes available, and then call me?
A. Yes and no. It is not practical to keep a list of people on standby, and then try to call them. However, since the schedule is published on the internet, and it changes dynamically during the day, users on "standby": can immediately take any opening that comes available on a "first-come first-served" basis. This should be done using email reservations and not by phone.
Q. Why are email reservations and cancellations necessary?
A. A written record of reservations and cancellations is generated that protects all parties from misunderstandings. Email is required for cancellations. Also, this system can be used even when the flow lab operator is busy assisting someone with their experiment, and cannot talk on the phone, or in person, without compromising work in progress.
Q. Can I run the instruments without the flow operator's assistance?
A. A practical test is given to those potential users of the FACSCAN who claim to have existing training and skill at using that instrument. The test is designed to determine if the user can operate the instrument without damaging it. This lab is not currently set up to train individuals on any instrument. Independent use of instruments other than the FACScan is not allowed.