Advanced Light Microscopy Innovation Lab (ALMIL)

The Advanced Light Microscopy and Innovation Lab (ALMIL) supports MSK researchers by advancing the use of cutting-edge imaging techniques to study complex biological systems. As a specialized hub, ALMIL pushes the boundaries of light microscopy, enabling high-resolution, large-scale, and dynamic 3D imaging to bridge molecular and tissue scales with unprecedented clarity.

Kat Hadjantonakis, PhD, Director of ALMIL and Chair of the Oversight Committee, is an expert in developmental biology, stem cell research, and live imaging approaches to study early mammalian development and tissue morphogenesis. Her work integrates advanced imaging technologies with genetic and molecular tools to unravel the mechanisms driving cell fate decisions and tissue organization. Under Dr. Hadjantonakis’s leadership, Christina Pyrgaki, PhD has been appointed as the Head of ALMIL, overseeing operations and innovation in microscopy applications. Dr. Pyrgaki is an expert in advanced microscopy techniques, including live-cell imaging, super-resolution microscopy, advanced light-sheet microscopy, and multi-photon imaging. She specializes in the development and optimization of imaging workflows, quantitative image analysis, and instrument maintenance and calibration. Christina also has extensive experience in microscopy education, providing hands-on training and consultation for researchers to support cutting-edge imaging applications. 

ALMIL specializes in light sheet microscopy for live, fixed, and cleared samples and provides access to the MinFlux system, offering super-resolution imaging and single-particle tracking. These technologies enable researchers to visualize intricate structures and molecular interactions, advancing studies in molecular biology, immunology, cancer biology, neuroscience, and more.

Key Areas of Focus:

• Light Sheet Microscopy
  Ideal for imaging large volumes with minimal phototoxicity, light sheet microscopy captures dynamic processes in live specimens and intricate structures in cleared samples.
• Super-Resolution Imaging and Single-Molecule Tracking The MinFlux system enables imaging beyond the diffraction limit and single-molecule tracking, revealing nanoscale details of protein localization and molecular dynamics.

In addition to state-of-the-art technologies, ALMIL provides consulting services to guide project design, optimize sample preparation. We assist researchers in establishing protocols tailored to their specific experimental needs, including sample preparation and mounting techniques optimized for advanced imaging applications. Our collaborative approach ensures researchers achieve high-quality results from their microscopy studies.

Embedded in MSK’s interdisciplinary environment, ALMIL collaborates with MSK-SKI scientists to drive innovation in light microscopy, supporting both basic research and translational applications. 

We invite investigators to explore opportunities with ALMIL to advance their research. We invite investigators to reach out and explore collaborative opportunities with us as we aim to drive innovation in microscopy for the MSK research community.