Training is a prerequisite to independent access to our Flow Cytometry shared resource equipment. Our minimum training requirements are:
-
- Attend a General Flow Cytometry Induction
All users must attend a General Flow Cytometry Induction. In addition, supervisors (or anyone involved in interpreting flow cytometry data generated at our Flow Cytometry Facility) must also attend a General Flow Cytometry Induction. General Flow Cytometry Inductions take approximately three hours and involve a theory and practical component.
Theory
The theory component covers basic principles of the flow cytometer, including fluidics, optics, electronics and how flow cytometry data is generated. The theory also covers the capabilities and specifications of the flow cytometry analysis and sorting instruments available at our Flow Cytometry Facility and an overview of the online booking systems.
Practical
The practical component is laboratory-based and includes correct start-up, cleaning, shut-down, general troubleshooting and data management standard operating procedures. Hands-on instrument training with fluorescent beads is provided to highlight common flow cytometry principles.
2. Follow-up training on an instrument of choice
After the general induction and a discussion on the type of flow cytometry application you want to conduct, instrument-specific follow-up training is advised. Pilot and preliminary experiments with representative samples and experimental conditions are an ideal opportunity for follow-up training. The follow-up training enables our Flow Cytometry Facility staff to sign-off user competency, and each have independently have met the minimum requirements for using the shared equipment, know some general troubleshooting procedures, and know the emergency assistance procedures to ensure the longevity of the shared equipment and the quality of data generated. Follow-up training is also an opportunity to set-up application specific and/or cytometer specific settings and templates for future experiments.
3. Additional training
Additional training on shared equipment is always encouraged.
Refresher training
Suppose it has been more than six months since you have utilised the flow cytometry platforms or would like to use several flow cytometry platforms. In that case, we encourage you to organise a 30-minute refresher training.
Additional training
At times additional training and information are necessary, if so please utilise our experienced Flow Cytometry Facility staff. However, if the request requires in-depth intellectual input into optimising your flow cytometry application, please refer to our ‘Attribution and authorship’ section below.
