Hale Hall, the long-standing home base for Farmingdale State College’s (FSC) Biology Department, has had a transformative journey spanning several decades. In 2003, the introduction of the Bachelor of Science degree in bioscience marked a significant milestone in the department’s evolution. However, a setback occurred in 2004 when a massive water leak forced the Biology Department to vacate Hale Hall, dispersing the faculty, staff, and lab equipment across the campus.
Despite this setback, the revitalizing of Hale Hall was completed in 2011 and the Biology Department returned to its rightful home, beginning a new chapter in the department’s history characterized by innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.
Hale Hall houses nine biology laboratories and four preparation rooms. Each lab features specialized workstations tailored to different areas of study, including genetics, microbiology, anatomy & physiology, ecology, molecular biology, and more. Students have access to advanced equipment and resources relevant to their coursework and research interests.
“We’re dedicated to offering students authentic, state-of-the-art lab experiences by continuously updating our equipment,” said Sarah Gross, PhD, chair of FSC’s Biology Department. “From flow cytometers and rotating fluorescent microscopes in cell biology to DNA sequencers in molecular biology, we provide cutting-edge tools.”
The preparation or “prep” rooms play a crucial role in supporting biology education and research by providing a controlled environment for the safe and efficient handling of biological materials. The prep rooms, which are used by a dedicated team of instructional support technicians and specialists, contain equipment and supplies needed for tasks such as dissection, staining, microscopy, and specimen storage. They are exceptionally well organized, with supplies neatly arranged and readily accessible. Cabinets and shelves are fully stocked with a comprehensive array of reagents, consumables, and equipment, ensuring that faculty and students have everything they need to conduct experiments with precision and accuracy.
With safety as a top priority, students are trained in proper laboratory techniques and protocols before conducting experiments. The labs are equipped with safety equipment such as eyewash stations, emergency showers, fire extinguishers, and fume hoods to ensure a safe working environment.
“The layout of the labs is designed to encourage collaboration and teamwork among students, which fosters a sense of community and helps students learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives,” said Gross.
Noteworthy Equipment
Technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing the learning experience within the biology labs. Students utilize advanced software for data analysis, simulations, and virtual experiments, augmenting their understanding of complex biological concepts.
In May 2023, FSC made a significant investment of nearly $180,000 and purchased the Invitrogen Attune CytPix Flow Cytometer, a powerful tool for cell analysis that offers enhanced imaging capabilities. Flow cytometry is a technique used in laboratories to analyze and sort cells based on their physical and chemical characteristics. Its high-speed analysis, multicolor capabilities, user- friendly interface, and versatility make it a valuable instrument for researchers seeking to explore the complexities of cellular biology.
In December 2023, FSC received the QuantStudio 5 Real-Time PCR System as a generous gift from Enzo Biochem. This advanced tool is used in laboratory settings for real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiments. It plays a vital role in amplifying and monitoring DNA in real-time during PCR processes. The system is indispensable for various tasks, including gene analysis, pathogen detection, and genetic testing.
The Anatomage Table is an advanced virtual dissection platform with a high-resolution touchscreen display for exploring detailed 3D anatomical models. It recreates skeletal systems, organs, and tissues with exceptional accuracy, providing a deep understanding of human anatomy and spatial relationships. This highly immersive and interactive learning experience enhances students’ comprehension of anatomical variations, and is used to supplement the anatomy and physiology laboratories.
FSC’s new Bioscience Aquarium Lab, unveiled in September 2023, is a cutting-edge facility in Gleeson Hall, next door to Hale Hall. Supported by local vendors and designed for teaching and research, this is a valuable asset for exploring Long Island’s aquatic ecosystems. Equipped with gear and custom-built tanks, it offers hands-on learning opportunities for students in biology courses.
Overall, the biology labs at Farmingdale State College are a testament to the College’s dedication to excellence in scientific education, providing students with the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive in their academic and professional pursuits.
“In our labs, students are not just conducting experiments,” said Gross, “they are laying the foundation for future discoveries and breakthroughs in the field of biology.”
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