The facility provides a wide range of microscopy equipment, from high-sensitivity widefield microscopes to confocal microscopes for multiphoton, fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM, FRET) and super resolution techniques (STED). We also have a Leica CellDIVE imager for automated high-multiplexing whole tissue analysis which allows for the detection of 60+ biomarkers at a single-cell level.
Complementing the microscopes, we also have cell culture equipment including a sterile bench, incubator, fridge and freezer to do essential cell culture work - please contact FILM staff directly to arrange booking these facilities. For physiological experiments, a peristaltic pump and a water bath are available.
Please note that prior to using any of our equipment, it is compulsory to complete training with FILM staff.
Microscopy Systems Available:
Confocal Microscopes (South Kensington)
Confocal Microscope (Hammersmith)
Widefield Microscopes (South Kensington)
- WF1 - Zeiss Axio Observer
- WF2 - Zeiss / HCImage
- WF3 - Zeiss Axio Observer
- WF5 - Zeiss Axio Observer 7 (CMBI microscope)
- WF6 - Zeiss Cell Discoverer 7 (CMBI microscope)
Widefield Microscope (Hammersmith)
Specialised Microscopes
Light sheet (South Kensington)
STED and FLIM
LS1, HCF3 and CF7 are also able to be booked as standard confocal microscopes.
Data handling
Facility users are solely responsible for their own data, but FILM tries to make data handling for users as easy as possible. At acquisition, all data are stored on local microscope hard drives. To make movement, save storage and processing as efficient as possible, FILM works together with the Bioinformatics Support Service to offer a fully functional workflow for save storage and fast and efficient microscopy data processing. For further information please see our page on data and network guidelines.
General enquiries
Facility for Imaging and Light Microscopy (FILM)
Sir Alexander Fleming Building
South Kensington Campus
Imperial College London
Exhibition Road
London SW7 2AZ, UK
film-service@imperial.ac.uk