Optics lie at the heart of microscopy, and advances in optics design continue to push the limits of resolution. For instance, the use of motorized microscopes and laser light sources now help in defining the plane of focus.

In recent years there has been a growing trend to work with live cells, for instance, in high-throughput screening for drug discovery, for stem cell research or for such applications as in vitro fertilization.

Nikon's small world recognizes excellence in photography through the light microscope.

FT-IR imaging is a powerful tool for materials characterization.

What are the key questions you should be asking to prioritize capabilities based upon your needs?

Development of a computational approach to quantitatively unmix overlapping spectra.

A microscopy facility can serve to promote the research goals of an institution. However, successful operation includes planning for and addressing issues such as fees, access, data control, safety, and even VIP tours.

The most important aspect of a multi-user core facility is that the data generated are accurate and useful for the goals of the researchers.