Facility for Imaging by Light Microscopy

Welcome to the Facility for Imaging by Light Microscopy (FILM), one of the largest and leading light microscopy facilities in London. FILM provides life scientists with access to world-class imaging technologies that enable high-quality, quantitative visualisation of biological processes in space and time.

The facility offers comprehensive expertise in both conventional and advanced light microscopy techniques, including widefield and confocal imaging, as well as specialised modalities such as STED super-resolution microscopy, fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM), and high-level multiplexing. Supporting users at all levels of experience, FILM combines state-of-the-art instrumentation with tailored training, expert guidance, and advanced image analysis support. We currently have a variety of high-specification systems from Leica, Zeiss and Nikon. We are continuously investing in emerging technologies and new practices and aim to serve as a hub for excellence, innovation, and collaboration in biological imaging. We also provide access to software and expertise in image data analysis, general microscopy education and a platform for knowledge exchange and networking.

Based across 2 sites, at South Kensington and Hammersmith, FILM is part of NHLI but is open to users across Imperial and to external users outside of the university. 

_{Many thanks to Patpong Rongkard, postdoctoral researcher in Professor Philip Molyneaux’s group (NHLI) for providing the above image of primary human bronchial epithelial cells cultured at air-liquid interface.}

System Relocations

• HCF2 and HCF3 have now been relocated to ICTEM room 304C
• HCF1 is now located in ICTEM room 314
• HWF1 is now located in ICTEM room 304B
• From 31 March: HCF1 and HWF1 temporarily unavailable due to pipework.

Upcoming Relocations:

WF1, currently located at SAF, is expected to be transferred to ICTEM in July, we expect WF5 to be moved to replace the WF1 in our widefield imaging suite at SAF. Usage of WF3 should be unaffected during this time. 

NEW! NIKON AX R with NSPARC

We at FILM are excited to announce that the new Nikon AX R with NSPARC confocal system is undergoing the final stages of set up and consolidation at ICTEM. The system will soon be open for training and will be termed HCF4 (Hammersmith Confocal 4) in July. 

The system supports a multitude of features including, but not limited to:

• Multiphoton excitation lines, alongside visible light options
• FLIM capability with built in PicoQuant analysis module for fast figure production
• Use of  lower magnifications with longer working distances and high numerical apertures to enable more flexible specimen preparations to be used
• High speed imaging: Nikon resonant scanner decreases the illumination time by more than 20x typical confocal scanning times so images can be acquired faster 

Please contact FILM staff for more specifics.