Microscopical imaging Techniques

Stereo microscope and light microscope are important tools to overcome the limitations of the limited resolving power of the human eye. As they are indispensible for the analysis of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, they form an integrative part of biological research.

The course will introduce standard and advanced techniques of light microscopy such as bright field microscopy, phase contrast microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. Strong emphasis will be on the practical part. We will use samples from the fields of microbiology, plant biology and zoology in order to demonstrate the handling of microscopes and familiarize the participating students with the maintenance of the equipment. Besides the application of various microscopical techniques, we will also treat important related topics such as sample preparation (including fixation, sectioning and staining techniques) and the professional documentation of the results by microphotography. The theoretical part will convey the necessary background knowledge and will cover the composition of light and fluorescence microscopes, magnification and optical resolution, contrast improvement, specific dyes and staining techniques, autofluorescence and secondary fluorescence.

The results of the course will be presented in a small workshop in form of poster presentations and a discussion.

The aim of this course is to introduce students to a variety of state-of-the-art applications of the light microscope for biological research. Besides practical work with different microscopes, the course will focus also on sample selection and preparation as well as the documentation of scientific results.

- Lectures 10 hours,

- Laboratory exercises and seminars 40 hours,

- Poster design and workshop (incl. colloquium) 15 hours

Due to restraints with the equipment, the maximum number of participants is 8.

Written approvable laboratory report and poster presentation at a workshop. Grade: passed/failed

Book chapters and articles; for details inquire at the Institute.