4th International UVM Practical Course
on Three-dimensional Cryo Electron Microscopy of Single Particles
August 2 - 9, 2009 

This international course will teach the principles of three-dimensional reconstruction of single particles from electron micrographs.

Lectures introducing the theory and practical aspects of image processing of single particles in electron microscopy will be combined with extensive practical projects. Each participant will learn the image processing steps required for three-dimensional reconstruction of single asymmetrical particles. This course will teach procedures for two- and three-dimensional alignment of images of single particles and classification techniques. Three-dimensional reconstructions will be carried out using the Random Conical Reconstruction technique and angular refinement procedures, as well as techniques for reconstruction from single images based on a three-dimensional low-resolution model. During the course, each participant will go through all the steps of a complete three-dimensional reconstruction.

As image processing systems versions of SPIDER and XMIPP will be used, yet the intention is not to limit the teaching to specific image processing system but provide a thorough understanding of the underlying principles.

Aspects of specimen preparation and electron microscopy will be demonstrated during the course combined with lectures and discussions about imaging and specimen preparation techniques.

This course is intended for researchers who want to start three-dimensional electron microscopy of single particles or would like to gain a deeper understanding of the methods. Participants should have some experience in electron microscopy, may have used some of the reconstruction techniques for other types of specimens or be starting out new in the field of three-dimensional electron microscopy.

This course is limited to 12 participants. Deadline for application is April 15th and the decision will be sent out within two weeks after this deadline.