Research Methods

UNTHSC Comparative Anatomy & Morphometrics (CAM) Lab

The CAM lab is equipped for 3D computerized visualization and advanced quantitative analysis of anatomy and morphology. Available equipment in the CAM lab includes graphics-optimized CPUs, a 3D microscribe, and a surface scanner. CT and MRI scanners are available in imaging suites near campus.  MicroCT and PET scanners are available through the UNTHSC Pre-Clinical Imaging Core.

UNTHSC Musculoskeletal Biology Lab

The Muscloskeletal Biology Lab is equipped for dissection- and histological-based analyses of hard and soft tissues, with an embedding & sectioning histological suite, a Meiji MT500 biological trifocal microscope, and a Meiji EMZ stereo trifocal microscope. Confocal microscopy is available through the UNTHSC Microscopy Core Facility.

UNTHSC Preclinical Imaging Core

This core facility is equipped with the necessary equipment for in-vivo, high resolution imaging of small animals. This core features a 7T MRI system, a CT 80 system with a PET Clip-On ring from MR Solutions, and PowerScan and VivoQuant work stations for image analysis. The CT 80 is capable of stand-alone CT operations and can be used with the PET ring for sequential multimodality imaging.

Rodent Models

Our research in ontogeny & functional morphology and human craniofacial health uses rodent models to investigate the relationship between feeding behaviors and musculoskeletal biology, and how these relationships change as individuals age. 

Human Research

Our research in human musculoskeletal health uses imaging data from the New Mexico Decedent Image Database and human skeletal remains obtained through museum collections.