DRP Spatial Platform
Advancing spatial biology at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute
We provide end-to-end support for spatial transcriptomics and imaging projects – from experimental design and histology through to genomics, data analysis, and publication.
About the Platform
The DRP Spatial Platform (DSF) is a specialist unit within the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute (CSCI), University of Cambridge. Our mission is to be the leading spatial biology core facility in Cambridge – and among the best in the UK.
We bring together expertise in histology, imaging, genomics, and computational analysis to support researchers across CSCI and beyond. Whether you need a full collaborative partnership or a focused service run, our team can help at every stage of your spatial project.
What We Do
- Project Design & Planning – Collaborative experimental design tailored to your research questions
- Histology & Sample Preparation – H&E staining, and sample processing
- Imaging – Slide scanning, CytAssist/Xenium preparation
- Genomics – Visium HD, CytAssist/Xenium spatial transcriptomics
- Data & Analysis – Quality control, data storage, and computational analysis support
Workflow
Every spatial project at the DRP Spatial Platform follows a structured pipeline to ensure quality and reproducibility:
- Project Design & Planning – We discuss your research goals, sample types, and experimental design.
- Histology & Sample Preparation – Tissue microarrays, H&E, and other preparations handled by our histology team.
- Imaging – Slide scanning, CytAssist/Xenium, and laser capture microdissection.
- Genomics – Spatial transcriptomics runs on Visium HD, CytAssist, or Xenium.
- Data QC, Storage & Analysis – Quality control, secure data storage, and computational analysis support.
Services
Engagement Tiers
The DRP Spatial Platform supports spatial biology projects at three levels of engagement, from fully collaborative research partnerships to standalone service runs.
| Engagement Level | Planning | Wetlab Support | Analysis Support | Service |
| Full collaboration | Joint | X | X | X |
| Partial collaboration | Joint | Partial | Partial | X |
| Service only | --- | --- | --- | X |
Full Collaboration
For research groups seeking deep partnership. We work with you from the initial project design through to publication, providing wetlab support, analysis, and ongoing consultation. Ideal for groups integrating spatial data as a central component of their research.
Partial Collaboration
For groups that have some in-house capability but need specialist support at specific stages. We provide targeted assistance with planning, wetlab protocols, or analysis as needed.
Service Only
For established groups who simply need access to our instruments and core facilities. We run the spatial assays and deliver data, while your team handles the rest.