The National Institutes of Health (NIH), Human Brain Collection Core (HBCC)
As a Special Volunteer and Creative Solution Consultant at the National Institutes of Health's Human Brain Collection Core (HBCC) of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), I provide technical expertise and innovative solutions to support the core's critical intake and imaging operations. The HBCC acts as a steward of a precious and scarce scientific resource, supplying brain tissue to researchers studying conditions like depression and schizophrenia. My work is focused on enhancing the efficiency and quality of this process to maximize the scientific value of each donation.
Key Contributions:
Advanced Imaging and Processing: Developed and deployed high-quality imaging and post-processing techniques, including the use of inverse polarization photography to eliminate surface reflections. This advanced method, combined with AI-powered enhancements, allows for increased detail and clarity in digital images, providing researchers with more precise data.
3D Scanning and Modeling: Co-designed and deployed a custom 3D scanning apparatus for rapid, high-quality capture of brain hemispheres. This technology, along with the co-design and 3D printing of dissection molds, ensures the accurate and consistent sectioning of specimens, which is essential for detailed anatomical analysis.
Operational Efficiency: Created an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) tool to automate the naming of images, significantly increasing efficiency during intake. I also implemented a QR code system for the automatic identification and organization of images, streamlining the process of uploading them to the core's database.
Technical and Engineering Consulting: Provided broad technical and IT support, including consulting on computer system upgrades and deployments, and addressing various engineering challenges across the core facility to ensure smooth and uninterrupted operations.
My work has directly contributed to the HBCC's mission of accelerating neuropsychiatric research by improving the quality, efficiency, and management of the donated tissue samples that are a key driver of life-changing discoveries.