X14 - Biological EM Sample Processing: From 2D to 3D

Separate registration required — Registration information coming January 2026.

INCLUDED IN REGISTRATION FEE:
Breakfast, Lunch, AM & PM Coffee Breaks

PROGRAM ORGANIZERS:

Alica Liang, New York University Grossman School of Medicine
Kirk Czymmek, Donald Danforth Plant Science Center
Ru-ching Hsia, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, NIH

This course provides an introduction to the principles and workflow of biological electron microscopy (EM) sample processing for animal and plant tissues, cultured cells, microorganisms and other particulate specimens. Emphasis will be placed on handling challenging samples and addressing practical considerations in experimental design. Participants will gain insights into methods for sample preparation and immunolocalization, imaging approaches, and an overview of imaging data interpretation and best practices for EM laboratory management. No prior experience in EM sample processing is required.

Topics within this Short Course will include:

Principles of biological sample preparation for morphology and immunolocalization
Special considerations: specimen orientation, location of region of interest (ROI), and other critical factors
Rapid sample preparation method: expedited workflows, including instrument-assisted and automated techniques
Experimental design for 2D vs 3D EM: sample collection strategies and imaging approaches
Advanced ultramicrotomy techniques
EM data interpretation: foundational approaches to analyzing and interpreting EM data
Lab management: best practices for organizing and running a microscopy laboratory.