This 5 day course is intended to train university staff, postgraduate students and biomedical scientists in the understanding and application of advanced techniques in light microscopy (LM) in the biomedical sciences.
We provide theoretical and practical training in a variety of LM imaging techniques, including:
- brightfield
- polarising
- DIC
- darkfield
- slide scanning
- time lapse
- fluorescence
- confocal
Participants are expected to acquire a portfolio of images from a range of microscopes using both pre-prepared specimens and ones that they prepare themselves. Participants will learn how to analyse, process and present still and video LM data. They will learn about the role light microscopy plays in biological research.
Due to the power and flexibility of our confocal systems, we do not expect participants to be able to set them up independently following this course. We aim to provide an understanding of general principles and experimental considerations. Further 1-to-1 training is available, including 1 day confocal masterclasses and follow-up sessions.
Aims and objectives
By the end of the course, participants should:
- understand how basic microscopy principles apply to the various types of light microscopes available together with their advantages and limitations.
- understand fluorescent labelling procedures and how to adapt them for particular applications.
- be able to identify microscope components and set up a light microscope for Köhler illumination.
- have hands on experience of the range of light microscopes available in the BIU.
- be able to acquire multi-channel images on confocal microscopes.
- understand the concepts behind some advanced techniques in confocal microscopy.
- be able to set up and acquire time lapse movies.
- be able to store and retrieve digital microscope images from a secure university server.
- understand basic image enhancement and processing procedures.
- prepare images and movies for PowerPoint presentation to a group.
Lectures
- health and safety
- anatomy of a light microscope
- fluorescence microscopy
- immunofluorescent staining
- non-immunofluorescent staining
- confocal microscopy
- live cell imaging
- advanced confocal techniques
- workshop, problems and questions
- image processing
- application seminar
Total time: 11 hrs
Practicals
- Köhler illumination
- viewing specimens on different types of microscopes
- fluorescent labelling of cell cultures
- viewing specimens on fluorescent microscopes
- use of time lapse and confocal microscopes (3 sessions)
- image processing
- micrograph and movie competition
Total time: 24.5 hrs
Dates and how to book
Due to pressure on staff time, we are unfortunately not currently able to offer this course. We can offer 1-to-1 tuition on any of our instruments.
To register for a place on the next available course, please email Patricia Goggin.