EM CCMI services

Yale has a long history of excellence in biological electron microscopy (EM). It started with Dr. George Palade, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist and founder of modern cell biology. He pioneered the use of electron microscopy and other techniques to discover tiny structures within cells and to discern their functions. His work established our basic understanding of cellular organization. Over several decades, the EM facility has been continuously providing EM techniques to investigators for their biological research. We provide internal and external scientists with EM services that include project consultation and experimental design, sample preparation, and imaging with transmission and scanning electron microscopes. More recently, we have implemented cutting-edge techniques to support users who need to study 3D subcellular architecture, such as electron tomography (ET), focused-ion-beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM), or correlative imaging using fluorescence microscopy and EM (CLEM). In addition, we offer user training to Yale researchers who would like to independently operate electron microscopes or use other sample preparation equipment in the facility.

• Cell and tissue sample processing, embedding in resin for transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
• Ultramicrotomy of plastic sections
• Cryo-sectioning and immuno-gold labeling (Tokuyasu method)
• Immuno-electron microscopy
• TEM and digital imaging
• Scanning electron microscopy
• Electron tomography for resin-embedded samples (single/dual tilt series)
• Focused ion-beam SEM sample preparation and 3D data collection (FIB-SEM)
• Training on operating various electron microscopes and sample prep instruments
• Consultation and assistance in experimental design, grant application, and publication

For independent users

The EM facility recommends that a lab member be assigned to a cryo EM project due to its complex nature and long-term commitment. This point person will be trained and tested on the Tecnai T12 TEM and expected to operate independently for at least 20 hours. Subsequent training on cryo-sample preparation should enable the user to perform cryoEM experiments on their own. With practice, users at this level are able to operate the microscopes and image samples independently. Once they have demonstrated sufficient expertise on the equipment, they are authorized to work during off hours or on weekends.

For collaborating users

Users have discussed the project with the EM facility and established a system of collaboration. Project feasibility is evaluated during a trial period. If the project is deemed reasonable, staff will provide substantial project guidance and assistance, which can include data collection and image analysis.

Use of Glacios cryo TEM

Currently, we offer four days of screening/data collection and one day of screening only per week. Users have the choice of either option. Signing up for a whole-day slot has the advantage over overnight data collection without additional charge. As of now, we only offer assisted use from Monday to Friday, but we expect to provide unassisted use in the near future to qualified users as well.

Anyone who is interested should contact the facility to make arrangements. Access is first-come, first-served. The screening day of the week will be determined on a weekly basis depending on user requests and microscope availability.