FYS-3029 Optical nanoscopy - 10 stp

The objective of this course is to provide education and training on state-of-the-art optical super-resolution imaging techniques. The emerging field of super-resolution optical microscopy is commonly referred to as optical nanoscopy. The focus will be on structured illumination microscopy (SIM) and direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM) techniques.

The course will provide theoretical and practical training on the state-of-the art optical nanoscopy techniques. The teaching will be given as lectures, demonstrations, and practical sessions. Students will be provided opportunities to image their own sample (within limitations) using state-of-the-art SIM and dSTORM microscopes to be installed at UiT. Optical nanoscopy has had an impact in several disciplines. Similarly, this course is planned to be cross-disciplinary and it is suitable for candidates with different backgrounds, such as physics, biology, medicine, fisheries, pharmacy, who are interested to learn or use the emerging field of optical nanoscopy.

The contents of the course are:

• Introduction to fluorescence based optical imaging techniques
• Diffraction limit and its implication in bio-imaging application
• Overview of existing optical nanoscopy techniques
• Opportunities and limitations of different optical nanoscopy techniques, (SIM, STED, dSTORM).
• Theory and background of direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM)
• Theory and background of Structured illumination microscopy
• Practical hands-on training on using dSTORM to acquire super-resolved optical images, small groups (each consisting of 3-5 students)
• Practical hands-on training on using SIM to acquire super-resolved optical images of live and fixed cells, small groups (each consisting of 3-5 students)
• Training on data analysis and post-acquisition image processing for 3D image rendering for SIM and d-STORM using Image J/Fiji or Volocity

The course will provide brief overview on image formation and microscopy before venturing into the arena of super-resolution optical microscopy.  The course will be given at both Master and PhD level. For Master level, cell staining, image acquisition, 3-D data rendering will not be mandatory and practical hands-on training will be less extensive. Practical training on SIM and dSTORM will be more extensive at PhD levels.
 

Knowledge - The student can:

• understand the implication of diffraction limits of conventional fluorescence microscopy
• evaluate the advantages and limitation of various optical nanoscopy techniques
• understand the underlying principles of SIM and dSTORM

Skills - The student can:

• gain basic skills to use and operate commercial SIM and d-STORM system to acquire super-resolved optical images
• gain practical skills on image rendering using Fiji/ImageJ/Volocity

General expertise - The student can:

• familiarize with optical microscope and fluorescence imaging techniques
• appreciate the multi-disciplinary research opportunities available at the cross-roads of biology and physics
   

Lectures: 20 hours

Exercises: 20 hours

The course will be given in two extensive modules, each consisting of one week.
 

Portfolio assessment of laboratory reports and home assignments counting about 40 % and oral examination counting about 60 %.

All modules in the portfolio are assessed as a whole and one combined grade is given.
Assessment scale: A-F.

Re-sit examination (section 22): There is no access to a re-sit examination in this course.
Postponed examination (sections 17 and 21): Students with valid grounds for absence will be offered postponed examination. Postponed assignments are arranged during the semester if possible, otherwise early in the following semester. Postponed final examination is held early in the following semester.
 
See indicated sections in Regulations for examinations at the UiT The arctic university of Norway for more information.
 

The date for the exam can be changed. The final date will be announced at your faculty early in May and early in November.