Stereology

Stereology is the discipline concerned with the quantitation of structures in 3-dimensions. The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology is excellently equipped for stereological studies, and provides expert advice to researchers both within Monash University and outside. Professor John Bertram is a former President of the International Society for Stereology.

Departmental staff and students conduct stereological studies on the kidney (see Professor John Bertram and Assoc/Professor Jane Black), heart (Assoc/Professor Jane Black) testis, and ovary.

The Department contains two Olympus Optical Disectors running the CAST-Grid System, and two physical disectors equipped with projection arms and computer-controlled microscopic stages. The Department houses an excellent histology service (see Histological Services) with all necessary ancillary equipment for stereological studies at the light microscopic (paraffin and glycolmethacrylate techniques) and electron microscopic levels. Training in processing, embedding and sectioning techniques is provided, or alternatively this can be performed by staff on a cost-recovery basis.