The Nanophotonics & Bioimaging (NBI) facility features cutting-edge optical instrumentation and the know-how required for the characterization of material and life sciences samples.

The INL expert team provides knowledge in the analysis of light-matter interactions at various scales: reaching from the detection of individual fluorescent molecules or nanoparticles to the high-resolution label-free and fluorescence-based imaging of fixed and live cells, e.g. in 2D cell models or tissues.

Furthermore, we are experienced in designing optically active nanomaterials and characterising e.g. plasmonic interaction effects or surface-enhanced Raman effects (SERS) and studying optical properties of metamaterials.

Operating as an open access facility, we provide support in training and service measurements on spectroscopy and imaging equipment, as well as complementary services, such as specimen/sample preparation, flow cytometry, and spectral or image analysis. Since 2020, the NBI facility is integrated in the Portuguese Platform of Bioimaging (PPBI).

This facility focuses on materials and biological research, the development of novel techniques and instrumentation, as well as providing training, technical support and consultation in the areas of electron microscopy and spectroscopy. The centre facility houses several electron microscopes that can probe the physical, electronic, biological, and chemical structure of matter down to the atomic scale.

These instruments are coupled with advanced in-situ holders, in which the environment is controlled to match near-realistic conditions of operation, and the sample’s behaviour is recorded dynamically in real time. State-of-the-art support facilities also are available, including standard specimen preparation equipment and an image analysis laboratory.