Microscopy Field Notes
A blog created to help life science researchers navigate the inspiring world of optical microscopy
Two-Photon Microscopy Objectives: Focusing on the Essentials
In our last post, Craig and I introduced the basics of two-photon microscopy. This month we will review some considerations for choosing the best objective for your multiphoton imaging. If you are new to objectives and their properties, we recommend that you consult...
What Is Two-Photon Microscopy?
This week I am joined by Dr. Craig Brideau, an engineering scientist who has recently joined the LCI team. Craig has designed and built numerous optical systems, and has particular expertise in biomedical imaging using non-linear optics. Over the next several posts,...
Honouring Maria Goeppert-Mayer for International Women’s Day
In recognition of International Women’s Day, I would like to highlight the German-American physicist Maria Goeppert-Mayer (1906-1972). Goeppert-Mayer started off in mathematics but was inspired to switch to physics after attending a quantum mechanics seminar presented...
Multicolour Imaging: Moving From Theory to Practice
Multicolour fluorescence imaging, when rigorously applied, allows the selective visualization of two or more features within a sample. The qualification “when rigorously applied” is so important because multicolour imaging is prone to artifacts. For multicolour...
Decoding and Demystifying Filters
Developing expertise in microscopy, like for any technical field, requires mastering fundamental concepts and skills while also developing fluency in the specific jargon. Although jargon can be convenient for facilitating communication, it often creates barriers for...
The Path Is Made by Walking
This month we share some reflections from Grace Baruta, who is a PhD candidate in the Hirota Laboratory at the University of Calgary. I have known Grace since she was a summer student, and she has always taken the time to research options and map out an approach, from...