Hello, I am hoping to crow-source brainstorming for project ideas for a local PC1 laboratory.
In the future we will try to find PC2-4 labs or expand this current lab to PC2-4 so we can work on more complex, useful projects, but for now we are stuck with these kinds of limitations:
In Australia, microorganisms are classified into four risk groups, based on several criteria (termed Risk Groups 1 - 4)and laboratories are classified into four corresponding Physical Containment levels (termed PC1 – PC4 laboratories).
PHYSICAL CONTAINMENT LEVEL 1 (PC1) A PC1 lab is suitable for work with microorganisms where the hazard levels are low, and where laboratory or facility personnel can be adequately protected by standard lab practice. PC1 lab practices and equipment are usually suitable for student and undergraduate teaching labs. The organisms used should generally be classified as RG1. Specimens that have been inactivated or fixed may be handled in PC1 facilities
HUMANS AND ANIMALS - RISK GROUP 1 - poses low individual and community risk. - is unlikely to cause human or animal disease. - for example: bakers yeast that everyone eats every day.
Basically, we cannot be working with human tissues or secretions or with mammals like rats. We will be able to work with nematodes, worms, flies, fish, etc.
Basically, what kinds of research at this level would be valuable for the longevity community? Thanks for any ideas!