MIF microscopes

The MIF currently houses 10 advanced imaging systems that provide transmitted light (bright-field), fluorescence, confocal, live-cell, super-resolution, 3D-imaging, high-content and high-throughput imaging modalities.

All MIF microscopes are equipped with transmitted light (TL) and fluorescence (FL) imaging capabilities. The majority of microscopes are inverted to allow for live cell imaging (including temperature, humidity and gas control).

MIF users are granted access to a computer lab with various imaging analysis software installed.

  • FIJI 
  • OMERO
  • QPath 
  • Imaris
  • Huygens
  • Zen Intellesis
A diagram showcasing four types of microscopy: Wide-field FL, Confocal, Super-resolution, and HCA & High-throughput. Each category lists specific microscopes, with images under each header. "Wide-field FL" includes 6 microscopes, "Confocal" 2, "Super-resolution" 3, and "HCA & High-throughput" 1. Logos and diagrams emphasise advanced scientific equipment. Tone is informative and professional.

Wide-field FL

Confocal

  • Nikon A1R
  • Leica Stellaris 8

Super-resolution

  • OMX-SR 
  • Leica Stellaris 8
  • Nikon N-STORM

HCA & High-throughput

Advice on Sample preparation

The MIF provides advice on sample preparation for a wide range of samples from isolated cells, tissues to organ-on-a-chip models. Microscopes are equipped with a range sample holders that support standard microscope slides, 35mm cover glass-bottomed dishes and multi-well plates.

Microscopes are also equipped with a large range of objective lenses suitable for thin and thick samples (longer working distance objectives) and the use of different sample immersion media (water, oil and glycerol-immersion objectives) that allow for refractive-index matching.

Advice on image data management, visualisation and analysis

The MIF aims to provide an effective image data management solution by access to and training on the use of OMERO (platform for managing images) to support FAIR data principles.

The MIF provides access to and training on commercial image analysis, visualisation and AI software, such as Huygens (SVI), Bitplane Imaris (Oxford Instruments), and Zen Intellesis (ZEISS).

Training and support on the use of open-source image analysis software (i.e. FIJI, QuPath) can also be provided on request. In addition, the MIF offers expert assistance with the preparation of manuscripts for publications by providing key advice for the correct reporting of microscopy and analysis methods.