Training

Rapid advances in live imaging of targeted cellular morphologies and functions underpin the emerging revolution in our understanding of synapses, circuits, and behaviour. In keeping with its long-established tradition, this Cajal course will assemble at its international faculty leading experts in developing and exploiting cutting-edge imaging techniques that have been propelling such advances. How to combine genetically encoded fluorescence labelling with behavioural designs, micro-circuit monitoring, or single-molecule tracking, how to avoid pitfalls of having false-positive observations and inherent noise, how to best analyse your multi-dimensional data will be, among others, the recurrent subjects of the Course.

The use of fluorescence microscopy (wide field, confocal, multiphoton, and now superresolution) in combination with genetically encoded fluorescence probes comprise a powerful set of scientific tools to study live cells. However, surprising little practical and theoretical training in such methods exists within standard curricula, particular at the early stage of training (Masters or Doctorate level). This course offers to cover basic optics principles necessary to understand the origin of microscope resolution and design. Participants will get hands-on experience implementing simple optical configurations to illustrate these fundamental principles. Subsequently, participants will perform experiments on state-of-the-art imaging equipment provided by microscope vendors.