Microscopy

We have a range of established and cutting-edge optical microscope and mesoscope technologies for label-free and fluorescence imaging of biological and non-biological specimens. Microscopes are housed adjacent to separate mammalian cell culture and microbiology cell culture facilities. Each microscope is located on a vibration-isolated optical table. Full training is available on all microscopes.

Many of our methods are unique to the Centre for Biophotonics: if you don't see below the technique or exact system specification that you need, please contact us. We are happy to discuss your requirements.

Widefield microsopy

We have a range of upright and inverted widefield microscopes for brightfield, darkfield, epifluorescence, differential interference contrast, phase contrast, and reflection imaging of fixed and living specimens.

Confocal and multi-photon microscopy

Upright and inverted confocal microscopes for up to 4-channel recording using single-photon, multi-photon (two-photon and three-photon), second & third harmonic generation, and reflection contrast for imaging of fixed and live specimens.

Interference and standing wave imaging

We have developed single-wavelength and multi-wavelength optical interference microscopy methods including standing wave techniques suitable for imaging of both mammalian cells and bacteria, and in fixed and living cell specimens.

STED, FLIM and FCS

Stimulated emission depletion microscopy, fluorescence lifetime imaging and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy is available using a Picoquant MicroTime 200 microscope with dual-channel capability.

Mesoscopy with the Mesolens

We have three Mesolens instruments in the Mesolab, capable of brightfield transmission, darkfield transmission, widefield epifluorescence, confocal point scanning, and lightsheet illumination. For more information see the Mesolab.

Image analysis and processing

We have experience in producing classical and deep learning image processing methodologies, and we can advise on image quantification and measurement using open-source and commercial software available in-house.