Instruments
SIS develops custom research instruments and components through precision machining, fabrication, and prototyping for academic and scientific applications.
- Modular Y-mazes for behavioral studies (spiders, mice, and rats)
- Custom fluidic channels
- Acrylic lenses and clevis pin adapters
- Heated lung windows
- Precision research fixtures
- Specialized holders, adapters and 3D-printed lab accessories
Research Instrumentation and Prototype Development
SIS develops research instrumentation and prototype systems for experimental work across engineering, biomedical, physical science, and interdisciplinary research environments. We support projects from early concept review through fabrication, assembly, and delivery of functional research-ready instruments.
Who We Support
- Primary Investigators (PIs)
- Faculty researchers
- Graduate students
- Research labs
- External academic collaborators
- Postdoctoral researchers (postdocs)
- Research scientists and lab managers
- Core facility directors and staff
- Industry partners and R&D teams
- Clinicians and surgeon-researchers
- Veterinary and preclinical research staff
- Undergraduate researchers and lab assistants
Services
As a research-focused machine shop, SIS provides end-to-end services including custom machining, fabrication and prototype development for scientific and academic projects.
- Custom Instrument Design – Iterative CAD development (SolidWorks) tailored to your experiment
- Precision Machining & Fabrication – Milling, turning and custom fitting with tight tolerances
- 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing – FDM and resin printing for rapid prototyping and small-batch parts
- Laser Engraving & Ablation – High-precision marking and surface structuring
- Material Sourcing & Advising – Selection of metals, polymers and specialty materials compatible with experimental needs
- Assembly & Integration – Delivery of complete, ready-to-use instruments
- Repair & Modification – Diagnostic and repair services for select scientific equipment (excluding centrifuges, vacuum pumps, freezers)
SIS staff are prepared to assist you in your research needs. To request services, please visit iLab at the links below.
Chicago Scientific Fabrication for Research Instruments
The Scientific Instrument Shop (SIS) provides scientific fabrication services in Chicago for custom research instruments, experimental fixtures, laboratory components, and specialized apparatus. Our work supports academic and research applications where commercial equipment is unavailable, insufficient, or requires modification for a specific experiment.
Scientific Machine Shop Services
As a research-focused scientific machine shop, SIS provides custom machining, fabrication, prototype development, three-dimensional (3D) printing, laser marking, material sourcing, and assembly services for scientific and academic projects.