| How much will it cost to complete an EM project? |
- The service fee for each EM project really depends on the type of projects and specimen. A conservative estimate is about $250 for processing one specimen for TEM. This includes $100 for Epon embedding, $70 for thin sectioning, $50 to $100 for thirty minutes to an hour of TEM usage to observe samples. However, the price for epon embedding of additional specimen is much more reduced. Immuno EM projects are likely to be more costly as there are a lot more steps involved and the reagents are more expensive as well.
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Is there an electron microscopy course that I can take?
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- At the moment, individual scope operation and EM techniques trainings are offered on a fee for service basis. Core Imaging Facility also organizes seminars, workshops, Lunch and Learn, etc. to introduce new EM techniques. A practical EM course may be organized once the facility is more established. Format and specific content of this course are under consideration. Contact CIF Director, Dr. Hsia if you have any suggestion and input concerning this matter.
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Why is there a surcharge in my service fee?
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- Surcharge is only applied to non Medical and non-Dental School users. Medical school and Dental School jointly support more than 50% of the running cost of the Core Imaing Facility. Therefore, investigators from both schools benefit a reduced pricing when using the Core Imging Facility services.
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How can I reduce the cost of my EM research? | |
- The best way to reduce the EM related service charges is to"do-it-yourself. Core Imaging Facility offers trainings of most of EM techniques by request. The techniques have been offered include negative staining, immunogold labelling and acrylic embedding.
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| Can I use the electron microscope even I know nothing about electron optics? | |
- Both transmission and scanning electron microscopes are designed for multi-user facilities and easy to operate. Core Imaging Facility offers regular basic scope operation training, a two hour one on one session demonstrating basic scope navigation and imaging acquisition. Most users can operate the scope comfortably after a couple of hours practice, even with minimum knowledge of electron microscope configurations. Furthermore, CIF staff are available to answer any questions and assist when needed.
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| Can I use the microscope after work hour? | |
- In general, we prefer users using our facility during regular work hours when technical staff is available to answer questions. Electron microscope users who have more than twenty hours of scope usage, have taken advanced training and pass the certification to demonstrate competency in basic alignment and operation can be granted access to the facility after work hours.
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