System for imaging captured cells

A method comprising:

• receiving an imaging substrate at a platform positioned between:
• a first light source configured to transmit light toward the imaging substrate from a first direction and a second light source configured to transmit light toward the imaging substrate from a second direction different from the first direction;
• and
• generating an image dataset from the imaging substrate, by way of a lens actuator coupled to a lens configured to transmit light from a target object toward an optical sensor, the target object comprising a tag having one or more features coupled to the imaging substrate, wherein the tag is defined at a surface of the imaging substrate and,
• wherein generating the image dataset comprises:
• actuating the platform relative to a first axis perpendicular to a plane defined by the platform, into a first configuration that aligns the imaging substrate into alignment with the first light source, the second light source, and the lens, and
• adjusting operation of the lens actuator, thereby automatically focusing the lens relative to the target object by way of the tag.