Axio Observer 7 motorized inverted microscope configured for high-performance live-cell and tissue imaging with high-speed definite focus correction unit. Includes Colibri 7 LED with seven individually adjustable monochromatic LEDs for fluorescence imaging. Also includes Zeiss PC workstation, ZEN 2.5 Pro imaging software and offline image analysis software, DIC components, and an ApoTome.2 structured illumination device, to provide a digital confocal solution for imaging 3D samples on a widefield microscope , and dual high-speed cameras for color and fluorescence (monochrome) imaging (current camera promotion will provide the more expensive of the two cameras at no cost). Optional incubation components for delivery of 100% CO2 to samples via a stage-top enclosure with full gas mixing.

This purchase is exempt from the usual selection processes of the Procurement Code because the procurement expenditure is for performing sponsored research and other sponsored activities under grants and contracts funded by the sponsor or by sources other than State appropriations. (30 ILCS 500 / 1-13(b)(8)) This microscope will be used in sponsored research on neonatal diseases, especially those threatening the health and life of preterm infants. This microscope will be an important instrument that will be frequently used to obtain scientific data in the lab.