2nd Hands-On Workshop on Single Particle Analysis
- April 20-22, 2026
- ANRF National Facility for Cryo-Electron Microscopy, IIT Madras
This three-day workshop is designed to provide participants with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), with a focus on single-particle analysis (SPA). The event will feature a combination of lectures and hands-on sessions, enabling attendees to master techniques required for high-resolution structure determination. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will equip you with the tools and expertise to advance your research in structural biology.
Key Highlights
The workshop will be a three-day intensive program hosted at the ANRF National Facility for Cryo-Electron Microscopy at IIT Madras. It will focus on the fundamentals and practical applications of single particle reconstruction, including:
- Dates: April 20-22, 2026
- Venue: ANRF National Facility for Cryo-Electron Microscopy, IIT Madras
- Format: Lectures and hands-on training sessions
- Target Audience: Researchers, students, and professionals in structural biology and related fields
- Seats: Limited (selection process detailed below)
Instructors
Aravind Penmatsa
Associate Professor,
Molecular Biophysics Unit,
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
Website: Click here to view
Prem S Kaushal
Associate Professor
Regional Centre for Biotechnology
Faridabad, Haryana
Website: Click here to view
Appu Kumar Singh
Assistant Professor,
Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering
IIT Kanpur
Website: Click here to view
Smarajit Polley
Associate Professor
Biological Sciences
Bose Institute, Calcutta
Website: Click here to view
Pananghat Gayathri
Associate Professor and Associate Dean
(Research and Development)
Department of Biology,
IISER, Pune.
Website: Click here to view
Mamata Bangera
Assistant Professor
Biotechnology
IIT MADRAS
Website: Click here to view
Topics Covered
The workshop will provide hands-on training and theoretical insights into single-particle analysis (SPA) using cryo-electron microscopy. Key topics include:
1. Introduction to Single Particle Analysis
- Basics of SPA and its applications in structural biology
- Advantages of cryo-EM over traditional methods like X-ray crystallography
- Case studies showcasing SPA in macromolecular structure determination
2. Sample Preparation
- Protein/protein complex preparation for cryo-EM
- Vitrification techniques for high-quality grid preparation
- Troubleshooting common issues in sample preparation
3. Data Acquisition
- Overview of cryo-TEM and direct electron detectors
- Best practices for image collection and motion correction techniques
4. Image Processing with RELION and CryoSPARC
- Particle picking and 2D classification
- 3D reconstruction workflows
- Iterative refinement for high-resolution structures
5. Addressing Challenges in SPA
- Managing sample heterogeneity and particle orientation bias
- Strategies for improving particle alignment and distribution
6. Validation and Interpretation
- Assessing resolution and map quality
- Biological interpretation of reconstructed models
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the workshop, participants will:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the SPA workflow using RELION and CryoSPARC
- Acquire hands-on experience in sample preparation, data processing, and 3D reconstruction
- Develop strategies to address common challenges in single-particle analysis
Registration Process
Seats are limited, and participants will be selected based on their research interests.
To Apply:
Interested applicants are requested to fill out the application using the Google Form link provided below.
Important Dates
- Application Opening: February 01, 2026
- Application Closing: February 28, 2026
- Notification of Selection: March 5, 2026
- Payment Deadline: March 10, 2026 (selected participants will receive a payment link)
Fees
- Academic Participants: ₹7,500
- Industry Participants: ₹15,000
The fee includes workshop registration, refreshments during the event, and accommodation (with breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at IIT Madras.
Accommodation
Shared accommodation will be provided at Taramani Guest House, IIT Madras campus. Specific check-in/check-out details will be communicated to selected participants.
Contact Us
For any queries regarding the workshop or registration process, please contact us during office hours (Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM IST):
- Email: cryoem_prg@icsrpis.iitm.ac.in
- Phone: 044-22574208/5990