Cornell University is expanding its Biotechnology Resource Center (BRC) through new artificial intelligence computing capabilities, laboratory facilities, advanced scientific instruments, and research support programs.
The initiative is designed to strengthen life sciences research across the university and improve access to specialized scientific resources.
The Biotechnology Resource Center, part of the Cornell Institute of Biotechnology, supports more than 600 research groups across five colleges, Weill Cornell Medicine, and other university research organizations.
The expansion follows a review conducted from October 2025 through May 2026, led by Marcus Smolka, associate vice provost and interim director of the institute.
The review incorporated feedback from more than 120 submissions identifying over 200 research needs across 24 departments and five colleges.
One component of the initiative involves expanding access to artificial intelligence tools and computing resources for scientific research.
The BRC’s Bioinformatics Facility has implemented BioSlurm, a subscription-based computing cluster designed to improve access to computational analysis and AI-enabled research.
Cornell is also developing programs to help researchers evaluate emerging AI technologies and share best practices.
Additional investment areas include advanced mass spectrometry, microscopy, and automated laboratory instrumentation.
Recently acquired equipment includes an Orbitrap Astral mass spectrometer and a light-sheet microscope supported through National Institutes of Health S10 grants.
A new shared laboratory, expected to open in early 2027, will provide space and resources for sample preparation, single-cell analysis, transcriptomics, proteomics, and related research activities.
The BRC is also expanding training and consultation services to improve researcher access to technical expertise.
A new seed credit program will provide eligible researchers with up to $5,000 or $20,000 in BRC service credits.
These credits can support preliminary experiments, testing of new technologies, and research intended to strengthen grant applications or scientific publications.
Applications are open through December 4, 2026.
KEY QUOTES:
“We wanted to develop a more community-driven approach to technology and innovation at Cornell, one that brings researchers, core facilities and university leadership together to identify emerging needs, coordinate investments and make the most of our shared resources.”
“The goal is not simply to introduce researchers to new AI tools, but to create communities where researchers can share experiences, evaluate approaches and develop practices that can be used by others.”
“The space is also intended to help preserve expertise within the university. Rather than having knowledge about a particular technology reside with one researcher or leave with a departing postdoctoral researcher, the shared lab will provide a place where researchers can develop, document and share protocols.”
Marcus Smolka, Associate Vice Provost And Interim Director Of The Cornell Institute Of Biotechnology
“The BRC and other core facilities are critical to research at Cornell. This effort goes far beyond acquiring equipment. We need an integrated plan that connects our diverse research community with specialized technology, expertise and resources, and aligns with university priorities.”
“The BRC will identify, coordinate, streamline, accelerate and strengthen new technologies across research groups and disciplines during this period of rapid change. These enhancements will keep Cornell at the forefront of innovation.”
Gary Koretzky, Vice Provost For Research At Cornell University
