Training Information

 

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 for users to be trained within a week of intended microscope use in order to avoid repeated training 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 CORES billing & scheduling system.
  2. You have to have a grant that can be charged for the initial training session/service work and any future microscope use in the CORES system.
  3. You need to speak to your PI and your department’s administrative staff in order to get coding arranged for you in the CORES system.

Data Storage

  1. Do you have a CAM account? The CAM account will allow you to log into the user computer and to store your data remotely.
      1. Yes - please see below regarding the lab folder.
      2. No - please 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, staurovsky@uchc.edu, 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 Confocal Resources, 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 to transition to the live samples in a subsequent training session.

    Useful Tools

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