Technology Awareness Program (TAP)
Getting started with the UIC TAP
The University Imaging Centers (UIC) is excited to announce a new Technology Awareness Program (TAP). TAP is designed to introduce both first-time users as well current users of other systems to the UIC’s latest advanced technologies to determine how they might impact their research. Through TAP, researchers can request a no-cost demonstration of select UIC technologies using their own samples to gather pilot data, or to learn if a new modality could move their research in a new direction.
Once we receive your submission, UIC staff will reach out to discuss your goals, sample preparation requirements, and arrange a time to image them using the chosen system.
After the demonstration, data can be analyzed using UIC analysis workstations and the data shared with you. If successful, researchers may confidently request training for independent system operation, enabling them to reserve and utilize the system for future experimental work.
TAP is open to all University of Minnesota researchers, including those affiliated with the coordinate campuses.
To get started, please create your iLab account, and complete the TAP submission form.
Please note, in order to fill out the form you must log in using a UMN email address
TAP Eligible Technologies
Nikon AX R with NSPARC
The Nikon AX R confocal system, integrated with the NSPARC (Nikon Spatial Array Confocal) detector, enables next-generation super-resolution imaging. Utilizing an ultra-low noise photon counting detector array, NSPARC achieves resolutions below 100 nm across eight laser excitation lines (408–730 nm), supporting highly multiplexed fluorescence imaging.
The system is built on the fully motorized Nikon Ti2 inverted microscope, offering a 25 mm field of view and advanced scanning options: FAST resonant scanning (up to 15 fps at full 2K FOV and 720 fps at 2048×16 pixels) and galvanometric scanning for ultra-high-resolution imaging (up to 8192×8192 pixels). Nikon’s Perfect Focus System ensures stability during long-term imaging.
Additional features include four-channel GaAsP PMT detectors with spectral detection, Differential Interference Contrast (DIC) capabilities, and a comprehensive objective set (4× to 60× oil immersion), compatible with an extended range of Nikon optics. Environmental control via Tokai-Hit systems (temperature, humidity, CO₂) supports live-cell imaging.
Nikon C2+ Upright Spectral Confocal and Widefield Imaging System
The Nikon C2+ features a fully motorized microscope body equipped with CFI60 objectives (10×, 20×, 40× oil, and 60× oil), all supporting Differential Interference Contrast (DIC). Illumination is provided by an LED fluorescence system with filters for widefield imaging (DAPI, GFP, Tex Red). A Prior motorized XY stage and Nikon DS-U3 color camera enable large-area tiling in brightfield, DIC, fluorescence, and confocal modes.
The system includes four laser excitation lines (405, 488, 561, and 640 nm), dual GaAsP detectors with continuous spectral filters, three PMTs, and transmitted light detectors. Transmitted light filters include ND2–ND16, Green, and Cool Blue. Widefield imaging supports brightfield, DIC, and fluorescence channels (DAPI, AF488, AF568, CY5).