Bio-imaging is at a critical juncture. New microscopy techniques and technologies are advancing our imaging capabilities at a rate faster than ever before and with this comes a raft of new challenges. Foremost amongst these challenges is a huge increase in the complexity and size of imaging data. Images are captured faster with higher quality and more dimensions, which ultimately yields this increase in size and complexity. Thus on one hand, the advancement in imaging and computing technology is allowing researchers to envision experiments and studies not previously possible. On the other hand, there is a risk that researchers may not be able to fully realise the benefits of these advances because the tools to handle, store, visualise and analyse the data derived from next generation imaging techniques do not yet exist. Meeting these challenges requires an integrated approach to handling, storage, processing and analysis of image data.
Monash Micro Imaging (MMI) caters for the optical microscopy needs for over 300 researchers annually. In collaboration with the Monash eResearch Centre and several other Monash core facilities, we are working towards integrating MMI instruments into a pipeline for automated transfer of user data into a centrally hosted data management service. This system allows users to access, organise and share their data with collaborators. In addition, it provides a unique workflow for preparing, packaging and publishing data for inclusion in publications. Finally, it represents a key component in our vision for the visualisation, processing and analysis of next generation image data.