Close-up of a laboratory instrument with parallel microfluidic channels and tubing connected to a control unit.

Light Microscopy Core

The Light Microscopy Core (LMC) in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology provides researchers access to cutting-edge imaging technologies and expert support to accelerate discovery. Our facility specializes in low-light fluorescence imaging with high temporal and spatial resolution for both living and fixed samples, enabling high-throughput image collection with minimal phototoxicity.

Led by a Ph.D.-level Technical Director with 20+ years of experience in optics and microscopy, the LMC offers training, consultation, and guidance to help users:

  • Select the most appropriate instrument for their project
  • Design and optimize imaging experiments
  • Troubleshoot issues during acquisition
  • Perform post-collection image processing and extract quantitative data

Facility Operation

  • User-driven access: Instruments are operated directly by trained users.
  • Training & certification: Users must be certified by the Technical Director before independent use.
  • 24/7 access: Once certified, users receive facility keys and can reserve instruments at any time using our web-based booking system.
  • Support: The Technical Director provides training, consultation, and maintenance but is not typically involved in daily imaging sessions.
  • Recharge system: User recharges cover all facility costs. To keep access affordable, rates are set to balance operating expenses. The facility receives no direct UC Davis financial support.

Note: Proper use is strictly enforced. Misuse or failure to follow operating guidelines may result in suspended access.

Facility Rules

The LMC operates on a shared responsibility model. Please follow these rules to keep instruments available and reliable for everyone:

  • All users must complete training before using any microscope.
    • Users who have been inactive for six months are required to complete a brief refresher training.
  • No food or drinks in microscope rooms.
  • Reserve time through the online booking system before each session.
  • Follow instrument-specific startup and shutdown procedures. Only power on components you need.
  • Clean objectives (especially oil lenses) and work areas after use.
  • Dispose of samples in your home lab, not in the facility.
  • At the end of your session:
    • Check the booking calendar.
    • Leave the Zeiss 980 system on if another user is scheduled; otherwise, shut it down.
    • Shut down all other instruments after use.
  • Report issues promptly in the PPMS system under “Report Incident.”

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancel reservations at least 24 hours in advance to avoid charges.
  • Failure to cancel results in charges for the full reserved time.
  • If you cancel, ensure the microscope is properly shut down if you were the final scheduled user of the day.

Data Responsibility

Users are responsible for their own data management. Images left on facility computers are not secure. Files are periodically deleted from local drives to ensure enough operation disk space. Files can only be stored on the LMC data server while processing and analyzing data. The LMC data server is not a permanent repository. If possible, please transfer files immediately after acquisition to:

  • A personal storage medium, or
  • Your lab’s designated server.