Optical Spectroscopy & Microscopy Facility
Measuring Photons.
Understanding Matter.
A shared research infrastructure at Instituto Superior Técnico giving students, researchers, and external users direct access to molecular and vibrational spectroscopy, optical microscopy and particle characterization techniques with expert support from day one.
METHODS & Equipments
Find the right technique for your sample.
From molecules in solution to thin films, powders, cells, nanoparticles, and colloids, our facility covers the full breadth of optical, vibrational, microscopy, and particle-based measurements.
Molecular Spectroscopy
Probe how molecules absorb, reflect and emit light to determine optical properties, concentration, and excited-state dynamics across UV to near-IR ranges.
UV-Vis-NIR Absorption
UV-Vis-NIR Reflection
Steady-State Fluorescence
Time-Resolved Fluorescence
Singlet-Oxygen Phosphorescence
Vibrational Spectroscopy
Resolve molecular fingerprints and chemical bonds with Raman and FTIR – from bulk powders to single cells and thin films at sub-micron resolution.
Confocal Raman
FTIR
Micro-FTIR
Optical Microscopy
Visualise cells, materials, and microstructures with diffraction-limited to super-resolution fluorescence imaging in wide-field and confocal configurations.
Confocal (with Multiphoton)
Widefield
Particle Characterisation
Determine size, distribution, surface charge, and colloidal stability of nanoparticles and colloids — from 10 nm to 10 µm.
Dynamic Light Scattering
Static Light Scattering
Zeta Potencial
Nanoparticle Track Analysis
Not sure where to start?
Tell us about your sample, your question, or your measurement goal.
We can help identify the most suitable technique and equipment.
Who do we support?
The right support, for the right stage of your work.
Whether you’re a student taking your first measurement, a researcher running a funded project, or an industry partner needing certified analytical data — our facility adapts to your level, timeline, and goal.
TRAINING AND SUPPORT
Measure with confidence. From day one.
Every user — from first-year students to experienced researchers — goes through a structured onboarding designed to make you independent, accurate, and safe on every instrument you use.
Your Training Pathway
Step 1
Initial Consultation
Discuss your sample, measurement goal, and experience level with the facility manager. He will recommend the right technique and instrument for your project.
Step 2
Instrument Training
Hands-on, one-to-one sessions covering theory, sample preparation, instrument operation, and data acquisition — on the specific equipment you’ll use.
Step 3
Supervised Practice
Run your first real measurements with a scientist on-hand. We ensure your protocol is correct and your data is reproducible before you go independent.
Step 4
Independent Access
Once certified, book and run sessions independently. Ongoing expert support remains available whenever you need it — for data, protocols, or troubleshooting.
Question, Answered.
Everything you need to know…
Pratical information about access, training, booking, and costs — before you get in touch.
How do I start using the facility?
Start by contacting the facility (using the contact form or the osm-facility@tecnico.ulisboa.pt) and describing your sample, measurement goal, and preferred technique, if known. We will help identify the most suitable method, define the access route, and indicate whether training, assisted measurement, or technical support is required. No prior experience is required to apply.
Do I need prior experience with the instruments?
No experience is required. Every new user receives hands-on instrument training before their first independent session. Our training is tailored to your background — whether you’re a first-year student or an experienced researcher moving to a new technique.
How do I book instrument time?
Certified users book sessions directly through our online booking system — QReserve Platform. You can view real-time instrument availability, reserve time slots, and manage your sessions from any device. For assisted or full-service measurements, contact the facility manager directly.
Are there fees for using the equipment?
Yes — usage is charged at hourly rates, which vary by instrument and user category. Contact us for a full rate card.
What if I need help during a session?
The facility staff are on-site during facility opening hours and available for support at any point. If you encounter a problem during an independent session — with your sample, your data, or the instrument — contact the facility staff.
Still have questions?
Our team responds within two working day.
Access the facility
Your next experiment starts here.
Whether you have a clear measurement goal or just a sample and a question — reach out and we’ll take it from there. No prior experience required.
Address:
Avenida Rovisco Pais, Instituto Superior Técnico
Complexo Interdisciplinar, 5th Floor
1049-001 Lisbon
Portugal
Email:
osm-facility@tecnico.ulisboa.pt