Cell Sciences Imaging Facility

Individual Training

GeneralInfo |Arranging a training session

 

General information

In order to use the microscopes in the CSIF, you must first go through an individual training session (Or, if you've told by us that you're here for something that which doesn't require training; ie computer use -- please still fill out the form below to the best of your ability). This training session is usually scheduled for 2 -3 hours depending on the instrument. We will demonstrate the hardware and software, and explain CSIF policies. This will take approximately the first hour. You will then use the microscope independently to practice on your own specimens. This step is VERY important as we have found that without this "hands on" time, we need to retrain again when you schedule your first solo session. Therefore, we will NOT arrange a session if you do not have time to stay to practice.

When we schedule a training session, we assume that you have worked out your labelling protocol, verified that your staining worked and that your controls are negative.

Many researchers use the CSIF microscope systems, please be courteous and arrive on time. If you are more than 20 minutes late, we will reschedule your appointment and you will be charged for the 3 hours of microscope time that was reserved for you. If you cancel your training the day of your training session, you will be charged for the 3 hours of microscope time that was reserved for you.

Arranging a training session

In order to arrange a training session, please do the following:

1. Identify the microscope technology you want to be trained on.

2. Call the office at 725-7532 or 723-2449 to schedule a training session. The microscopes are usually pretty busy, so we recommend doing this at least a week before you would like to be trained.

3. Fill out the on-line application for a user account no later than 2 days before your initial training. We need this information in order to be able to have an user account ready for you when you come to your initial training.

4. In order to pay for your time, the CSIF must have an SU-13 on file. If your lab doesn't already have one on file with the CSIF, please get one from your lab administrator. The CSIF bills once a month, so request that the form be good through the end of the month or the end of the academic year (August). Bring this form with you to your initial training session.

5. Prepare your sample, verify that the staining works before coming to the CSIF. Bring the sample to your training session.

Keep in mind that all of the microscopes in the CSIF are inverted, i.e. sample must be placed on the stage so that the coverslip is facing downwards. As a consequence, the coverslip must be sealed to the slide so that the mounting media cannot spill out onto the objective. If you want to study live cells, your cells must be chamber wells with a COVERSLIP bottom. Chambers with a glass slide on the bottom will not work. See the Technical Support page for more information about live cell chambers.

See you at training!