Fluorescence Microscopy (1210), June 30–July 2, 2026 In-Person
COURSE OUTLINE & SYLLABUS
Course schedule: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday
Students in this 3-day course, taught at McCrone Research Institute in Chicago by Dr. Steven Ruzin, will become proficient in techniques of fluorescence microscopy for investigation of biological and non-biological samples, but particularly for the identification of microbes in the environment. The course consists of lecture, demonstration, and hands-on training in the practice of sample collection, preparation, and observation using the technique of fluorescence microscopy. After completion of this course students will have gained experience in designing protocols using fluorescence microscopy, and in implementing those protocols for the investigation of lab and/or field samples. There is no prerequisite for this course.
Students in this 3-day course, taught at McCrone Research Institute in Chicago by Dr. Steven Ruzin, will become proficient in techniques of fluorescence microscopy for investigation of biological and non-biological samples, but particularly for the identification of microbes in the environment. The course consists of lecture, demonstration, and hands-on training in the practice of sample collection, preparation, and observation using the technique of fluorescence microscopy. After completion of this course students will have gained experience in designing protocols using fluorescence microscopy, and in implementing those protocols for the investigation of lab and/or field samples. There is no prerequisite for this course.
Day 1
- Course introduction: Introduction to the theory and practice of epifluorescence microscopy
- Microscopes for fluorescence
- Filter sets (identifying, purchasing, installing)
- Light sources (replacing and aligning burners),
- Cleaning
- Alternate light source(s) for fluorescence
- The practice of fluorescence microscopy:
- Labs 1, 2: Sample preparation, Intrinsic fluorescence
- Survey of fibers
Day 2
- Beginning fluorescence investigation
- Labs 3, 4: Survey of organisms, Cytochemical fluorescence microscopy
- Investigation of biological samples.
- Labs 5–7: Plant and fungi cell walls, Lipids.
Day 3
- Labs 8, 9: Identification of bacteria using SYTO, Identification of bacterial endospores
- Testing liquids for bacteria
- Labs 10, 11: Bacteria viability, Fluorescence staining of polysaccharides
- Conclusion