What can DaMBIC do for you?
DaMBIC is a bioimaging core facility at the University of Southern Denmark. We help researchers use advanced microscopy, spatial transcriptomics, label-free imaging, and quantitative image analysis to answer scientific questions in biology, biomedicine, biophysics, food science, materials science, and related fields.
Users can access state-of-the-art imaging technologies, receive training for independent microscope use, and get support in planning, acquiring, analysing, and interpreting imaging data.
What can you use DaMBIC for?
DaMBIC supports imaging-based research from early experimental planning to image acquisition, analysis, and interpretation. Users do not need to identify the exact microscope in advance; DaMBIC can help translate a scientific question into an appropriate imaging and analysis strategy.
Typical applications include:
- Quantitative fluorescence imaging of cells, tissues, organoids, engineered model systems, and small organisms
- Immunofluorescence based co-localization, phenotyping, and spatial organization studies
- 3D imaging of tissues, organ-on-chip systems, thick specimens, and biological model systems
- Live-cell and live-tissue imaging of dynamics, transport, diffusion, signalling, and cellular interactions
- Automated image acquisition for screening, comparative studies, and quantitative readouts across experimental conditions
- High-resolution and super-resolution imaging of molecular architecture, membrane organization, protein complexes, and nanoscale cellular structures
- Spatial transcriptomics for linking gene-expression patterns with tissue morphology and cellular microenvironments
- Multiplexed RNA imaging using MERFISH and spatial gene-expression analysis using 10x Visium
- Raman-based and label-free chemical imaging of biological samples, food systems, polymers, particles, and materials
- Imaging and analysis of drug-delivery systems, cancer-related samples, food composition, nano- and microplastics, and other chemically complex samples
- Tabletop electron microscopy for structural and surface imaging
- Image processing, quantitative analysis, visualization, and data interpretation for microscopy-based projects
Examples of available imaging technologies and workflows include widefield, confocal, spinning disk, multiphoton, super-resolution microscopy, Raman, SRS, CARS, tabletop SEM, MERFISH, 10x Visium, and dedicated image-analysis workflows.
More information about available instruments and technologies can be found on the DaMBIC equipment page.
How we support users
DaMBIC supports users in different ways depending on the project, experience level, and technical complexity.
Independent use
Many users are trained and certified to operate DaMBIC instruments independently. This is often the most suitable model for routine imaging, repeated experiments, screening workflows, and projects requiring flexible microscope access.
Routine support
DaMBIC provides routine support to help users get started, choose suitable imaging approaches, set up standard acquisition conditions, troubleshoot common issues, export data, and discuss image-analysis strategies.
Supported imaging
For projects requiring advanced setup, substantial hands-on assistance, experiment-specific optimization, or imaging performed by DaMBIC staff, supported imaging can be arranged.
Method development and collaboration
Projects that require new imaging workflows, advanced analysis strategies, or technical method development can be discussed as scientific collaborations.
Fees and access
DaMBIC fees depend on the type of user, the instrument or technology used, and the level of staff support required. Routine onboarding, training, and brief user support are provided to help users get started, while instrument use and more extensive staff-assisted imaging are charged according to the current DaMBIC pricing model.
More information about access, booking, and current fees can be found on the DaMBIC fees and access page.
Getting started
If you are new to DaMBIC, start with your scientific question. Consider what sample you want to study, what information you need, whether the sample is fixed or live, what spatial resolution is required, and whether you want to image independently or with staff support.
To begin, visit the DaMBIC training page or contact DaMBIC to discuss which imaging approach is most suitable for your project.