Why has TEC been established?

Medical and biological research are becoming more and more dependent on technology.

• Genomics and proteomics are working with ever increasing numbers of samples and sample volumes continue to shrink,
• Sample preparation is becoming more demanding,
• Detection levels are shrinking, and surgical tools are becoming less invasive and more precise.

The Technology & Engineering Center at Harvard Medical School has been established to promote the development of technology solutions for these and other challenges facing medical and biological researchers at Harvard. TEC consists of a group of engineers and scientists exclusively focused on working with the Harvard research staff to bring new research tools, equipment, and methods to bear on current research and to enable new areas and methods of research in the future.

What skills does TEC have?

• Liquid handling and Sample Preparation,
• Laboratory Automation (material handling, data acquisition, robotics),
• Measurement Systems,
• Optics,
• Mechanical and Machine Design,
• Electronics and Software, and
• Plastic Part Design.

As necessary, TEC staff will be supplemented with consultants and design firms to bring needed skills to the team.

How is work in TEC funded?

For most projects TEC anticipates working with the researcher (e.g. jointly prepared grant applications) to secure funding for the development effort. In some cases, primarily for smaller and more focused efforts, the funding can come from existing sources.

To discuss an idea or potential project with TEC, or for more information please contact:

Dale Larson
Director, Technology & Engineering Center

Harvard Medical School
240 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115

phone: 617-432-6171
fax: 617-738-0516
dlarson@hms.harvard.edu