Biophysics labs (at the division of solid state physics (FTF))

BPL

Close collaboration with Lund NanoLab (LNL).

The labs are dedicated to studies of biophysics of molecules and cells using optics and microfluidics. The capabilities include standard fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, STED microscopy (with FLIM and polarization), holographic microscopy, optical tweezers. The cell culturing facilities have incubators and other standard equipment for culturing of bacteria and eukaryotic cells.

Optics and fluidics labs (Q129 and Q112): Advanced epifluorescence microscopes (Nikon TE2000) with high sensitivity cameras (Andor iXon, Hamamatsu) and one ultrafast camera (Motionblitz). Flow control using pressure controllers from Fluigent. Standard electronics (signal generators, HV amplifiers, oscilloscopes). * Soft lithography (PDMS) lab (Q126): Laminar flow benches, spinner for silicone rubber (Laurell Technologies), oxygen plasma, ovens, icemachine, incubators * Super resolution microscopy (STED) lab (Q115): Two STED instruments from Abberior Instruments GmbH, equipped with FLIM and polarization. Biosafety Level Two (BSL2) Lab (Q262): Incubators of various types, optical microscope with camera and fluorescence capability, biosafety work bench (laminar flow hood for bio) * Cell Culture Lab (Q125): Incubators of various types, optical microscope. * Chemistry Lab (Q226): Standard biochemistry, DNA analysis, electrophoresis, spectrometer, centrifuges, asbestos working station, -80C freezer (located in Q100 lab corridor) * Optical Tweezers Lab (Q225): Homebuilt optical tweezers setup based on 1064nm laser. Various other homebuilt fluorescence systems.

The infrastructure as described here is an agglomeration of a number of separate labs dedicated to biophysics. The labs are used, either directly or in collaboration primarily by the biophysics groups at solid-state physics. The number of researchers who depend on the infrastructure is approximately 25 people. In addition the resources are used for teaching, notably in the course Experimental Biophysics (FFFNA20, FAF010F 15hp) that is given every spring semester. Many of the labs are routinely used for national and international collaborations.

Prospective users will be trained at the facilities and can then use the facilities, initially together with the person responsible for the facility, at a later stage independently.

All the setups generate digital data that is initially stored on the lab computers and optionally stored on an off-line server. This server is accessible from outside the labs whereas the lab computers are only accessible within the labs.

The labs are run by individual managers, who are responsible for the running of the labs, including the planning, training, maintenance, and upgrading. The labs are the overall responsibility of the management of the division of solid state physics.