Training Information

Microscope Training Information video

Captioned version of the training video (MP4)

Microscope Training and Service Work

Frequent users of the microscopes at the CCAM facility have the option to undergo training to operate
the equipment independently. This training ensures they can utilize the microscopes effectively and
safely. Alternatively, users who prefer or require assistance can opt for assisted usage, where a
knowledgeable member of the CCAM facility staff will control the microscope on their behalf. This
flexibility accommodates varying levels of expertise and comfort with the equipment, ensuring all users
can access the facility's resources efficiently.

Please note: Training or assisted use sessions will only be scheduled once a user can confirm they have a CORES account, linked to a grant, and a CAM account.

Request Form

Once we receive your request form, you will meet with the facility's staff to discuss your imaging needs.

  1. Please complete the Microscope Training and Service Work Form.

Scheduling

  1. Training sessions are conducted on a case-by-case basis, with a maximum of two trainees per session.
  2. It is highly recommended to be trained within a week of intended microscope use to avoid repeated sessions due to lack of use.
  3. Service work is performed on an as-needed basis.

Billing and Reservation System

  1. You must create an active account in the CORESbilling & scheduling system.
  2. You must have a grant that can be charged for the initial training session/service work and any future microscope use in the CORES system.
  3. Speak to your PI and your department’s administrative staff to get coding arranged for you in the CORES system.

Data Storage

  1. Do you have a CAM account? The CAM account allows you to log into the user computer
    and to store your data remotely.

    1. Yes — please see below regarding the lab folder.
    2. No — visit High Performance Computing to request a CAM account.
  2. Does your PI have a CAM lab folder? This optional lab folder is the
    location for you to store your data remotely and is only shared with current lab members.

    1. Yes — please have your PI visit High Performance Computing to request that you get access to the shared folder via your CAM account. Please be sure that they provide the network location of the folder and your name and email credentials.
    2. No — please have your PI visit High Performance Computing to request a CAM lab folder. In addition, ensure that your PI requests access for you via your CAM account.

Contact

  1. The initial training session or service work will be scheduled in conjunction with Susan Staurovsky —
    Email Susan Staurovsky,
    860-679-4686.
  2. Please complete the form above and Susan will contact you once it has been verified you are an
    authorized user in the CORES system with grant funding, and you have a CAM account.

About Your Training Session

At CCAM, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that recognizes and values
the unique strengths and perspectives of our learners. During this training session, we encourage
everyone to be open and respectful of different ways of thinking, learning, and communicating. By
embracing differences, we can create a space where all participants feel valued and empowered to
contribute their best.

If you need any accommodations for your training session, please let Susan
(staurovsky@uchc.edu) know so we can best meet your learning needs.

Your Sample

If possible, please bring your own sample to the initial training session. You are advised to refer to Sample Preparation regarding the preparation of your sample for viewing on our microscope systems. If you will be using live specimens, it is recommended to bring a fixed sample, using the same or similar fluorophores as with the live specimen to the initial training. Staff will help those with live samples transition to the live samples in a subsequent training session.

Useful Tools

Please refer to the spectral tools below to see if your probes are compatible with our equipment. If you need further assistance, please contact Susan at staurovsky@uchc.edu or 860-679-4686.