In the year 2020, PAIR-UP was established by leaders George Langford, Torsten Woellert, and Leong Chew. We are supported by prominent funders such as the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Burroughs Wellcome Fund, and Carl Zeiss Inc. The acronym “PAIR UP” stands for Partnering to Advance Imaging Research. PAIR-UP is a research community of  Imaging Scientists. Our fundamental objective is to advance their research careers and foster the expansion of the scientific workforce. Through securing grants from private foundations and leveraging in-kind contributions from partnering institutions, PAIR-UP has been able to bring this vision to fruition.

​

At the core of PAIR-UP's strategy, are three primary components: Education, Research, and Community Building. The Education component aims to provide advanced training and access to state-of-the-art imaging equipment, empowering Imaging Scientists with the knowledge and tools necessary for success. The Research component focuses on establishing collaborative research teams engaged in groundbreaking scientific endeavors. By fostering partnerships and collaboration, PAIR-UP aims to enhance innovation and achieve remarkable scientific breakthroughs. Recognizing the challenges faced by scientists at historically White institutions, PAIR-UP's Community Building component aims to enhance cultural identity and address the experience of being culturally isolated. By cultivating a supportive network, PAIR-UP seeks to empower its members and create a sense of belonging within the scientific community.

​

To further its mission, PAIR-UP has organized a series of prestigious Advanced Imaging Workshops in partnership with renowned institutions such as HHMI Janelia Research, Vanderbilt University, Rockefeller University, and more. These workshops serve as a platform for experts in the field to share knowledge, provide guidance, and inspire the next generation of imaging scientists.