CARF’s purpose-built laboratories house state-of-the-art instruments for analysing the physical, mechanical, chemical and biological properties of solids, liquids and gases. Our staff are experts in a wide range of scientific disciplines and analytical technologies. We work with researchers and commercial clients to scope and solve real world problems through tailored sample preparation and analysis and meticulous data interpretation and reporting. We take the time to ensure the information we collect meets clients’ needs. CARF is a one-stop analysis shop, offering bulk sample preparation, precise data collection and scientific interpretation of results. We use a wide range of established and experimental techniques to discover the composition, structure and function of molecules and materials and to develop new materials with enhanced properties. We can work with a range of samples including tissues, solids, liquids and gases.

Website

https://www.qut.edu.au/research/why-qut/infrastructure/central-analytical-research-facility

Organisation type

• University Research Centre

Number of research staff

20-100 research staff

Address

Level 6, P Block, 2 George Street, Brisbane QLD 4000

Strengths and capabilities

• Genomics and proteomics
• Histology
• Optical and electron microscopy
• Mass spectrometry
• Analytical chemistry
• Physical and mechanical properties
• X-ray and particle analysis

Facilities and major equipment

• Genetic analysis/sequencing
• Liquid/gas chromatography
• Paraffin, resin & cryo histology, high throughput processing
• Light/scanning microscopy, laser physics
• Vibrational spectroscopy
• Scanning/transmission electron microscopy
• Electron microprobe
• X-ray and neutron diffraction
• X-ray fluorescence
• Mass spectrometry

Lead researcher

• Professor Stephen Blanksby—Developed new mass spectrometry-based methods for the rapid detection and characterisation of molecules in complex mixtures
• Dr Charlotte Allen—Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Mass Spectroscopy to determine ages of minerals & elemental concentrations in biological materials

Achievements of the centre

• Installation and operation of the first Helium Ion Microscope in Australia
• Nationally recognised centre for greenhouse gas analysis

Key science sectors

More information about the sectors this centre is involved in:

• Advanced manufacturing
• Engineering
• Environment and nature
• Mining/resources