Multimode plate reading and nanoparticle characterisation in the Life Sciences Building, supporting a growing range of biochemical and analytical research.

What you can do here

Our biochemistry facility centres on two highly versatile instruments – a multimode plate reader and a dynamic light scattering system – supporting a wide range of assay types and particle characterisation work.

Our equipment

Multimode Plate Reader – BMG LABTECH FLUOstar Omega

A versatile multimode microplate reader supporting absorbance, fluorescence intensity (including FRET), and luminescence (including BRET) in a single instrument. An integrated UV/Vis spectrometer enables full-spectrum absorbance scans alongside high-speed kinetic measurements. 

An atmospheric control unit and onboard incubation allow live-cell measurements under defined gas and temperature conditions, with high-precision injectors for reagent dispensing during a run. 

Multimode Plate Reader – NanoQuant / Tecan Infinite 200 Pro

The Tecan Infinite 200 Pro is a multimode plate reader supporting absorbance, fluorescence, and luminescence detection, a flexible platform for general biochemical assay work alongside our FLUOstar Omega. Used with the NanoQuant plate accessory, it also enables high-throughput microvolume quantification of nucleic acids and protein directly in plate format, without the need for cuvettes.

Chemiluminescence & Imaging – Bio-Rad ChemDoc Touch Imaging System

A versatile imaging system supporting chemiluminescent detection alongside fluorescence and colorimetric imaging, useful well beyond routine gel and blot confirmation for general chemical and biochemical visualisation work. Image Lab software supports quantitative analysis of band intensity, suitable for comparative or semi-quantitative biochemical assays. 

Particle Characterisation – Malvern Zetasizer Nano Series

A dynamic light scattering (DLS) system for measuring particle size, zeta potential, and molecular weight of materials in solution. Widely used in nanomedicine, drug formulation, colloid science, and nanoparticle characterisation, relevant to both biological and materials-focused research. 

Solvent Removal & Concentration – BUCHI R-100 Rotary Evaporator with Chiller

A rotary evaporator for the gentle, efficient removal of solvents from samples under reduced pressure and concentrating extracts without the high temperatures that could degrade heat-sensitive compounds. Paired with a recirculating chiller for consistent condenser cooling, supporting longer and more reliable runs.

An expanding facility

Biochemistry and analytical science is an area of active investment for the department. If you have specific analytical requirements not listed here, please get in touch – we may be able to advise on capacity or future availability.