Abstract:
The Cellular Imaging Core Facility (CICF), based in the Centre for Human Genetics at the Old Road Campus, leverages cutting-edge imaging technologies to provide new spatio-temporal insights into complex biological systems. Home to one of the most comprehensive suites of microscopy systems in the University of Oxford, the CICF supports a broad spectrum of imaging approaches including confocal and widefield microscopy, live-cell and high-content imaging (for slides and multiwell plates), and super-resolution techniques such as SIM, SMLM/STORM, Airyscan and SoRa.

Our advanced capabilities also encompass specialised methods such as FLIM, FRET, FRAP, FCCS and TIRF, complemented by powerful analysis workflows that combine classical segmentation with machine learning to interrogate highly complex five-dimensional datasets.

As the imaging facility partnered with the Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, we will highlight how our imaging and analysis expertise—together with our experience in live-cell imaging and sample preparation—can add real collaborative value to your research. We will also showcase some of our current technologies and example projects, including ongoing collaborations within the department.

Bio:
James Bancroft

Dr James Bancroft is the Microscopy Team Lead for the Cellular Imaging Core Facility (CICF), a role he has held since 2020. He leads a team of four specialists supporting a diverse research community in designing, executing, and analysing imaging assays across a wide range of biological systems.

Since taking on the role, James has significantly expanded the CICF’s technological and analytical capabilities through successful grant applications and strategic industry partnerships. He has extensive experience in the development of advanced imaging assays and is an expert in multiple microscopy modalities, combining insights gained during his academic career with over three years in industry working at the forefront of microscopy innovation.

Before joining the CICF, James spent six years as a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Oxford, where his work focused on applying live-cell imaging to investigate the regulation of cell division.

Katie Holden

Katie Holden is an Advanced Imaging Specialist in the Cellular Imaging Core Facility, where she supports researchers through user training, imaging assay development, and advanced image analysis. She has particular expertise in imaging complex samples such as organoids, iPSC-derived models, and live-cell systems, and she develops bespoke image-analysis pipelines to extract meaningful biological insight from high-dimensional data.

Before joining the CICF, Katie worked in the University’s iPSC Facility and the Diabetes and Inflammation Laboratory, where she gained extensive experience in iPSC culture and differentiation. She also applied these skills within the neuroscience field to generate and study iPSC-derived neuronal models using advanced microscopy.