2020 end of year update

As we approach the end of a challenging year, we have some important updates regarding the Melbourne Histology Platform (MHP).

Cut-off dates for processing

For 2020, the last day for on which we will accept samples for paraffin processing and/or embedding is Monday 21st December. Processing requests received after that date will not be actioned until we re-open in 2021, and we will take no responsibility for such samples if researchers leave them in the laboratory before we reopen.

End of year closure dates

MHP will close from Wednesday 23rd December 2020 and reopen on Monday 18th January 2021. During this closure period:

  • We will not be actioning any service requests, e.g. paraffin processing, automated H&E staining, sectioning or staining by MHP staff.
  • Only trained users with swipecard access to the Medical Building (including the level 2 east wing) will be able to book and access the microtomes, cryostats and vibratome. Those users must comply with the afterhours work procedures of the Medical Building.

iLab booking system

iLab is now being used for all equipment bookings and service requests. Quick reference guides, important information and updates can be found on the Booking System page of our website.

  • From Monday 7th December 2020, it will be mandatory to provide financial information when making bookings or submitting requests; the system will not allow submission of instrument bookings or service requests without the financial information. This information is a valid Themis string for UoM users, or a purchase order number for non-UoM users. Lab heads: if you have not done so already, please assign Themis strings to your researchers in iLab following the instructions in the Quick Reference Guide for PIs/lab heads, we strongly encourage setting a default account for each of your lab members.
  • For researchers that are yet to register for iLab, please ensure that your supervisor/lab head registers for an iLab account prior to you registering as lab heads must approve the registration requests for their researchers.

From the entire MHP team, thank you for your custom in 2020. We wish you a safe and relaxing end of year break and look forward to welcoming you back to the Platform in 2021.