Fluorescence Widefield Microscope

The University of Groningen (hereinafter: the UG) intends to purchase an advanced fluorescence widefield microscope system for high-resolution imaging of dynamic phase-separated and microfluidic systems. The microscope will be used to image fluorescently labelled samples in real time, requiring high sensitivity, rapid image acquisition, and computational image restoration during live imaging. The system must provide automated multidimensional imaging, submicron positioning accuracy, and a 100× high numerical aperture objective for quantitative fluorescence microscopy of microscopic structures. The research performed at the UG focuses on the behavior of dynamic chemical systems, including microfluidic platforms, and microscopic droplets. Many of these systems evolve on short timescales (<1 s) and therefore require live fluorescence imaging with high temporal and spatial resolution. Conventional post-acquisition deconvolution is not suitable for these experiments because image quality must be improved during acquisition while maintaining the temporal resolution needed to observe fast processes and adjust experimental conditions during measurement. The microscope must therefore provide real-time computational clearing of out-of-focus fluorescence, enabling immediate visualization of dynamic events without introducing delays in the experimental workflow. In addition, the research involves imaging microscopic droplets with diameters down to approximately 1 µm. Reliable quantitative analysis of these structures requires a high numerical aperture 100× objective, excellent optical performance, and a motorized stage with submicron positioning accuracy to enable precise relocation of regions of interest, automated tile scans, z-stacking and reproducible time-lapse experiments. The microscope will be used by multiple researchers for quantitative fluorescence imaging, multidimensional image acquisition, and automated analysis of dynamic samples. The system must therefore provide a fully integrated hardware and software platform with reliable automation, high reproducibility, and manufacturer-supported service. See the market consultation document for futher information.