NIGMS, the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, and the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science seek input on approaches to apply high-resolution (sub-nanometer to micrometer) bioimaging technologies to samples ranging from atoms to cells. Input is requested on the specific needs of the biomedical research community to match existing technical approaches and instrumentation to significant biological questions, and on prioritizing the development of novel bioimaging technologies that might be in demand for potential biological and medical applications.
The DOE and NIH support national centers and dedicated instruments for high-resolution bioimaging at national facilities. Capabilities include:
- X-ray microscopy and tomography
- 3D electron microscopy
- cryo-electron microscopy
- infrared imaging
- light microscopy and live cell imaging
- image analysis
- dynamics
- computing
- software development
- data management
Recognizing that new directions in science are often inspired by new tools and methods as well as new biological concepts, the agencies also support the development of new bioimaging tools and methods at these centers and in the laboratories of independent researchers.
The request for information (RFI) seeks input from researchers in academia and industry, clinicians, and scientific societies and advocacy organizations, as well from interested members of the public, on how bioimaging resources supported by the DOE and NIH might be best matched to pressing biomedical questions.
Responses to the RFI will be accepted through May 6, 2020. All comments are anonymous and must be submitted via a web form 
.