Microscopy – Bio-Imaging BIOS08

Do you want to learn about how we can visualise the inside and outside of cells and tissues? Our microscopy course equips you with the tools to explore life's smallest building blocks and uncover their secrets.

Overview

This course introduces you to microscopy and bioimaging techniques essential for life sciences. You will focus on light microscopy and fluorescence imaging systems like confocal microscopy. The course also explores electron microscopy, x-ray micro-computed tomography, and infrared spectroscopy. You will gain knowledge on how to prepare and optimise both fixed and live samples and use various staining methods to visualise cell structures and functions.

Teaching and learning

Teaching includes theory lectures, seminars, and live demonstrations of key instruments in the Department of Biology's microscopy platform. The course also includes a literature project to explore advanced microscopy theory, as well as a hands-on bioimaging project. You will acquire, analyse, and interpret images from samples used in current research projects at the department. You will learn how the samples were prepared, image acquisition with research-grade instruments, and data analysis. You willl present your findings both in writing and orally.