Life depends upon biochemical processes occurring at specific times and places within cells and tissues. Light microscopes are the most important tools used to observe this incredible organization.  

To help provide training in light microscopy, the KY INBRE Imaging Training and Education Center will be offering a three-day, in-person, hands-on short course for Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors and graduate students from Kentucky colleges and universities.  

This course will include 17 hours of hybrid lecture/lab instruction and take place in the teaching labs of Western Kentucky University. 

Shared occupancy lodging at the local Staybridge Suites Hotel, as well as on-site meals will be provided at no charge to participants.

Participants will be selected through competitive application and must be at least 18 years old by January 3. Application review will begin December 1 and notification of acceptance will start beginning December 5. Late applications may be accepted if there is space available.

Topics covered in the lectures will be:

• • basic light optics

  • methods for producing contrast in biological samples

  • basics of digital imaging

  • purchasing, care, and maintenance of light microscopes.

In the lab, each student will be provided an advanced teaching microscope to learn the following types of microscopy:

• • brightfield

  • darkfield

  • phase contrast

  • polarized light

Two other types of microscopy, Nomarski differential interference contrast and epi-fluorescence microscopy, will be demonstrated, and deconvolution and confocal fluorescence microscopy will be introduced.

All inquiries can be directed to john.andersland@wku.edu