Scientific Director: Benjamin Glick, PhD
Technical Directors: Shirley Bond, MS, Christine Labno, PhD, and Vytas Bindokas, PhD
Website: digital.uchicago.edu
(Read an article in Pathways to Discovery)
The Integrated Microscopy Facility functions as a supervised, user-based, hands-on core by providing state-of-the-art microscopy imaging capabilities to investigators through microscopy instrumentation, image analysis tools, and expert training and assistance. The facility strives to provide high-quality optics and equipment that most labs do not possess, including confocal and state-of-the-art two-photon and STED superresolution spectral microscopes. Available techniques provided by the facility include classic color histological stain imaging, contrast generation in unstained cells, and fluorescence technologies that allow for applications ranging from localization of multiple targets to readouts of biochemical or physiologic parameters in either fixed or living preparations.
Services
- User training on microscopes and software
- Light microscopes (eight) with brightfield and fluorescence optics, including high-end objectives and technologies (color, phase contrast, differential interference contrast [DIC], multiparameter fluorescence including multiratio imaging and laser-based total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy [TIRFM])
- Digital image capture: high-resolution B/W and color charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras, high-sensitivity CCD cameras, and high-speed electron-multiplying CCD (EMCCD) cameras
- Whole-slide four color fluorescence and histology high-resolution scanning service for digital archive generation
- Confocal microscopy including Leica two-photon spectral and Leica STED-CW superresolution laser scanning systems (high-resolution, high-sensitivity, and high-speed image capture) and three spinning disk confocal systems
- Support for live sample maintenance and imaging
- Data analysis (including Imaris and Huygens Pro deconvolution programs), workstations, storage, back-up, oversight, and maintenance
- Assistance in feasibility studies, grant applications technique/technology development, and compilation of data for presentations and publications
- New produce demonstrations
