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A Robust Single-Particle Cryo-Electron Microscopy cryo-EM Processing Workflow with cryoSPARC, RELION, and Scipion
Published on: January 31, 2022
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Running an electron microscopy core facility
Ilkka Miinalainen1, Eija Jokitalo2
1Biocenter Oulu, Electron Microscopy Laboratory, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
Journal of Microscopy
|April 13, 2026
Summary
Establishing and operating electron microscopy (EM) core facilities requires careful planning. This guide offers practical advice on infrastructure, training, safety, and management for biological and biomedical EM facilities.
Area of Science:
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Microscopy and Imaging Technologies
Background:
- Electron microscopy (EM) is increasingly vital across scientific fields.
- The rising cost and complexity of EM necessitate centralized core facilities.
- Core facilities ensure accessibility, performance, and quality in EM research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide practical guidance for establishing and operating biological and biomedical EM core facilities.
- To outline key considerations beyond light microscopy for EM facility management.
- To identify strategic future directions for EM facilities.
Main Methods:
- Drawing on operational experience from two EM core facilities in Finland.
- Detailing essential aspects of facility infrastructure and technical needs.
- Covering user training, sample preparation, and safety protocols.
Main Results:
- Key operational areas include personnel and cost management.
- Future strategic directions encompass sustainability, data management, and AI.
- Distinguishing EM-specific needs from light microscopy requirements is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Efficient, safe, and high-quality EM facility operations are achievable with proper planning.
- Centralized EM facilities are essential for democratizing access to advanced imaging.
- The strategic evolution of EM facilities must address sustainability, data, and AI integration.
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