NSCPHD1044 Advanced Methods in Microscopy

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The course covers all biologically relevant methods in microscopy and presents their theoretical background as well as the practical control of the instruments. The teachers are members of the Center for Advanced Bioimaging (CAB) Denmark. Preparation methods for the respective microscope type and hands-on at the instruments are included. The course is structured in modules related to the different instruments and methods. Students interested in the course can freely choose the appropriate module(s).

Course homepage: http://www.cab.ku.dk/education/General: For modules a-e described below, the course is based on (i) Literature studies, (ii) Laboratory work, resp. work at the microscope, (iii) Supervision of practical and theoretical work, and (iv) Final submission of a written report on the laboratory work including a discussion which refers to the latest relevant literature on the selected subject.

Module a: Light Microscopy (6 ECTS)
This module covers all light microscopic methods (bright field, phase contrast, fluorescence, polarisation, differential contrast, confocal). The optical and technical background is thoroughly discussed (resolution, Köhler illumination, wave optics, diffraction, amplitude and phase specimen birefringence), and measuring methods and the effects of different instrument settings are practiced. The students are requested to come with their own specimen and will learn how these can optimally be documented. This course module will run when at least six students participate. Because of the limited number of microscopes suited, the number of participants is limited to 20.

Module b: Histology (6 ECTS)
This module is designed according to the aim of the student’s actual research project and includes theoretical as well as practical training in histological sample preparation of the student’s own plant material. After choice, the techniques may include whole mount sampling or procedures for light microscopy or transmission electron microscopy (including fixation, embedding, semithin/ultrathin sectioning and staining/contrasting). The interpretation of the resulting images and identification of potential artifacts is included.

Module c: Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy CLSM (3 ECTS)
The course module is designed as a general introduction to confocal microscopy (3 ECTS). The students will learn about the fundamental principles in confocal and two-photon-microscopy, about the use of the microscopes in practice, and about the many potential possibilities. It will, however, not serve as a full practical training for using the microscopes in the CAB-center. It will be possible for the students to bring their own specimens.

Module d: Scanning Electron Microscopy SEM (3 ETCS).
The course module is designed as a general introduction to scanning electron microscopy (3 ECTS). The students will learn about principles in SEM, and we will in practice go through the whole process for obtaining classical SEM-recordings. That is: fixation, dehydration, critical point drying, and coating of specimens. This is then followed by recordings with the microscope. In addition, Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) is demonstrated. It will be possible for the students to bring their own specimens.

Module e: Summer course June 2017 (5 ETCS).
The summer course for experienced microscopists comprises theory and hands-on on selected topics, such as FLIM, super resolution, high throughput, live cell imaging, and spectral imaging. Internationally outstanding experts will give key notes on these topics. It will be possible for the students to bring their own specimens, if suitable for the selected techniques and agreed upon (please indicate your interest at the latest end of May). Part of the summer course is the 5th Bioimaging Workshop Copenhagen with opportunity to contribute posters or talks.

Module f: Image  Interpretation (2 ECTS) 
The course is based on active participation in CAB's Image Interpretation Meetings at UCPH's CAB. The students should attend at least 8 seminars to get credit. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to a wide range of imaging methods and imaging projects pursued at CAB, covering animal, plant and food sciences, but with strong emphasis on live imaging. Projects at CAB will be complemented with Journal Clubs (JC) where articles are selected from temporary imaging methods. Each student has to present one JC article and be opponent for another one. This module has a strong focus on good scientific conduct in imaging and aims at developing image interpretation and scientific conversation skills with special attention to possible imaging artefacts.