Microscopy CORE Lab
The Microscopy CORE Lab is an Open Research and Education platform in the field of microscopy and collaborates with both internal and external research groups. Internal scientists are from Maastricht University (UM) or the Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+) whereas external scientists typically belong to other universities, research centres or private companies.
◾ Advanced Light and Electron Microscopy
Our facility offers a range of LM and EM imaging techniques, including:
- confocal microscopy
- long-term in vivo imaging
- super-resolution STED microscopy
- multi-photon (intravital) microscopy
- fluorescence lifetime and spectroscopy imaging
Additionally, we provide scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), electron tomography, and correlative light- and electron microscopy (CLEM).
The MCL supports studies conducted at both room temperature and under cryogenic conditions.
◾ Microscopy CORE Lab; FHML
In recent years, some of the MCL’s most advanced techniques have been developed in collaboration with UM user groups, primarily with the Nanoscopy division of the M4I Institute.
This collaboration has led to the advancement of several cryo-LM and cryo-EM techniques, such as spinning disk cryo-LM, cryo-electron tomography, single particle analysis (SPA), cryo-CLEM, and FIB-SEM under cryogenic conditions.
Additional partnerships with the MERLN Institute and the Department of Genetics and Cell Biology further contribute to the continuous refinement and upgrades of our facilities.
The MCL also works closely with the Instrument Development Engineering & Evaluation (IDEE) department to create and implement new sample preparation methods, imaging instrumentation, and technologies.
Our mission and vision
The MCL specialises in advanced light microscopy, cryo-electron microscopy, and correlative light and electron microscopy, employing both classical and cryo-methods for sample preparation and analysis.
Built on our university’s CORE (Collaborative Open Research & Education) philosophy of our university, the MCL collaborates closely with scientists to achieve their research objectives in our advanced microscopy training centre.
We support the integration of both established and emerging microscopy technologies, actively contributing to UM’s educational programme and collaborating with both the UM community and external academic and biotech partners.
Additionally, we organise international courses to train students and researchers in advanced (cryo-) microscopy techniques, including LM, CLEM and advanced EM methods. With a strong focus on education, we provide tailored support, training, and courses for all users, from beginners to experienced researchers.
