Rate My Professor Rob Woolley

Dr. Rob Woolley is the Scientific Officer and manager of the Confocal Microscopy unit at Otago Micro and Nanoscale Imaging (OMNI), a key research infrastructure facility in the Health Sciences Division at the University of Otago. As the primary contact for confocal microscopy services, he manages the unit, serving as the first point of entry for new research projects. Woolley provides essential consultation to researchers, assisting in the design of practical experiments tailored to their scientific objectives. He also delivers hands-on training for users on the operation of sophisticated imaging equipment, ensuring optimal utilization of the facility's resources.

Woolley's technical proficiency spans confocal laser scanning microscopy, conventional light microscopy, and X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT). He actively engages in data acquisition using these instruments, with a particular emphasis on advanced image analysis techniques to process acquired datasets. Furthermore, he performs 3D reconstructions from extensive image stacks, facilitating detailed visualization of biological structures. Confocal microscopy under his oversight generates striking, high-resolution images that capture intricate details invisible to standard techniques. Drawing on his deep experience, Woolley guides researchers in the precise interpretation of these vibrant images, mitigating common pitfalls in analysis and enhancing the reliability of research outcomes. His contributions support a broad spectrum of studies across the University of Otago, underpinning advancements in health sciences research through superior imaging capabilities.