BAG User Training

BAG training is designed to help BAGs get the most out of remote data collection sessions and to help us make the most of the time we have available for training on microscopes. The aim of the BAG training programme is to ensure that each BAG has a local point of knowledge who can confidently assist other members of the BAG with remote data collection sessions at eBIC.

During training, participants will become familiar with the various systems we use to facilitate remote access, shipping, data collection and pipeline analysis in SPA/cryo-ET data collection. Participants will also have the opportunity to cover any gaps in their knowledge with eBIC staff.

Please browse this page or use the 'In This Section' navigation to see past and upcoming BAG training events.

The BAG training programme is ideally suited to participants who have already undergone basic training at their home institute and are already familiar with EM theory, data collection and setup in EPU and/or TOMO.

For further details please refer to the following document: BAG nominees prerequisite training

BAG training sessions are remote and held via Zoom with access to eBIC microscopes provided via NoMachine.

Focussed 3-day courses have been developed for EPU and Tomo operation:

• Day 1 - Demonstration: eBIC staff demonstrate the various systems we use to facilitate remote access, shipping, data collection (in EPU or TOMO) and pipeline analysis.
   
• Days 2 & 3 - Practice & Observation: BAG trainees take turns in setting up their own remote sessions with guidance from eBIC staff.

Once trained, users will be able to set up a single particle or tomography collection sessions using EPU/Tomo software, with support from their local contact at key stages. Training in how to change samples in the cassette and session set up will enable independent multi-grid collection sessions. Please communicate with your local contact to plan your collection strategy, data transfers and grid recovery.

The type of training (EPU or TOMO) provided in upcoming sessions will be decided based on demand.

eBIC has a limited number of places each year on the BAG User Training Programme, these spaces are allocated by priority. Priority is given to new BAGs and those who do not have a local point of knowledge within their BAG to assist others remote data collection sessions at eBIC.

Currently, BAG coordinators are asked by eBIC to nominate candidates to receive training at the start of each Allocation Period. Please speak to your BAG coordinator for further information.

The type of training (EPU or TOMO) provided in upcoming sessions is decided based on demand.

If you have access to eBIC via a rapid proposal, where typically more support is provided during the session, user training will be considered on a case by case basis.

For other enquiries please reach out to [email protected].

You may download a generic BAG User Training Programme for EPU (download) or TOMO (download) as an indication of the course curriculum - you may also wish to consult the eBIC User Guides.

View the past events in the left hand navigation bar or browse upcoming eBIC BAG User Training dates below.