Cryo-EM

Hands-On Workshop on Single Particle Analysis

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 2-4, 2025
  • 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

Mamata Bangera

Assistant Professor
IIT Madras
Website: Click here to view

Saikat Chowdhury

Senior Scientist
CSIR-CCMB
Website: Click here to view

Somnath Dutta

Associate Professor
IISc
Website: Click here to view

Sandip Kaledhonkar

Assistant Professor
IIT Bombay
Website: Click here to view

Sucharita Bose

Facility In-Charge
DBT-InStem
Website: Click here to view

Vidya Mangala Prasad

Assistant Professor
IISc
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/molecule 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 orientational 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:

Registration Process

Seats are limited, and participants will be selected based on their research interests.

To Apply:

Applicants should send an email to cryoem_prg@icsrpis.iitm.ac.in with a Word/PDF file containing the following details:

Name:
Email ID:
Affiliation (Institution, Name of Advisor, PhD/Postdoc, etc.)
A 250-word essay on how cryo-electron microscopy (CryoEM) and single-particle analysis (SPA) are useful for your research.

Important Dates
  • Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
  • Notification of Selection: March 5, 2025
  • Payment Deadline: March 8, 2025 (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):
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