Workshop 5: CryoEM sample preparation training using center merit badges

Description

Cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) is a method used to determine high-resolution, three-dimensional structures of samples that could not be used with other techniques in the past, such as samples containing mixtures of different biological structures or intact cells. CryoEM instrumentation is being installed in many research institutions and there is a need to learn the best practices available in the field. This workshop, which will be held on Friday, July 29, 2022, will focus on cryoEM educational resources available to researchers and to provide hands-on training with cryoEM sample preparation instrumentation.

The objective is to learn how to interface with the NIH sponsored Transformative High-Resolution CryoEM Program, which offers a comprehensive online cryoEM curriculum that familiarizes new users with cryoEM equipment and workflow. Lectures and practicals will focus on everything from how to use the national cryoEM service centers, media-rich curriculum to augment users’ own hands-on training, and earning cryoEM merit badges. CryoEM proficiency badges are awarded to users in three main skill areas (Sample preparation, Microscope operations and Data processing). This workshop, in particular, will focus on the “Sample preparation” merit badges. After trainees complete a necessary set of requirements, they may apply for a merit badge. Receipt of a merit badge will qualify the user for independence, and be cross-honored at other national service centers for instrumentation use. This workshop will benefit those who want to use cryoEM centers, or who may be new to cryoEM workflows. This workshop will be held offsite at PNCC/OHSU where staff and students must provide proof of full COVID-19 immunization. Admission into this workshop is considered conditional until proof of full COVID-19 vaccination is provided or a medical or religious exception is approved by OHSU.

Instructors

Schedule 

This workshop will be part of the main program of the ACA meeting, but held offsite at PNCC where the cryoEM instrumentation and laboratory space will be available. Due to OHSU's COVID-19 Immunizations and Education policy, everyone visiting OHSU will need to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or attestation from their home institution that they are compliant with OHSU and Oregon Health Authority vaccination policies (https://news.ohsu.edu/2021/08/04/ohsu-covid-19-vaccination-requirement-update) .  For those with medical or religious exception approvals, a letter from their home institutions will be required. The registration cap will be 40 users. Registrants will be asked to rank the practical station offerings and be able to attend up to 3 stations with the intention of earning NIH cryoEM center merit badges. However, certain merit badge stations may require the full day to earn based on the registrants starting level.