In 1996 Cora Styles founded Cora Styles Needles ‘N Blocks to provide simple tools to enable yeast researchers to perform simple tasks more easily. As a yeast geneticist herself at the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she knew first-hand the need for reliable ready-made needles (fibers) for tetrad dissection and other cell manipulation. She also knew the need for heavy, durable replicating blocks and high-quality cotton velveteens.

The many scientists who worked with Cora over the years will recall her enthusiasm and the joy she brought to yeast work. See how she introduced her original needle kit:

DO YOU SUFFER FROM BROKEN-NEEDLE-IN-THE-LAB SYNDROME?

Symptoms: Anxiety, guilt feelings, denial, feigned innocence, witch hunts, irrational anger, cursing and microphobia.

Recommended treatment: Cora Styles' Needle Dissection Kit as directed.

Possible side effect: Mild euphoria.

Over the years, Cora’s small company has thrived. Since her death in 2006, the business was in the hands of her partner Pat Wakeley, who continued to provide carefully crafted low-tech tools to the yeast community until the end of 2010. The company is now under the care of Pat's daughter, Susan Alderson, who has been working within the research lab community for over 5 years. The product list may be limited, but we work to provide the highest quality goods and customized personal service.

Please contact us with any questions or suggestions.