Global impact through train-the-trainer (TtT) courses

Global BioImaging (GBI) and its regional and national partners, such as Canada BioImaging (CBI), BioImaging North America (BINA), Latin America BioImaging (LABI), the African BioImaging Consortium (ABIC) and Microscopy Australia (MA), have been working to create training opportunities for imaging scientists across the globe. During the COVID-19 pandemic, GBI and its partners developed a virtual training platform for independent learning (GBI Virtual Training Platform), with self-guided training modules spanning from microscope operation to facility management. More recently, in-person train-the-trainer (TtT) frameworks, including the Montreal Light Microscopy Course (MLMC), have been designed to deliver a multiplying effect by providing imaging scientists with the training and resources they need to run microscopy courses in their facilities, institutions, countries, and regions. Major goals of this initiative included empowering the next generation of imaging scientists by sharing resources and expertise, providing training in course logistics and organisation and building an international collaborative network of expert trainers to accelerate access to fundamental and advanced technologies. As of April 2026, the TtT project has consisted of three TtT courses, at least 11 second-generation microscopy fundamentals courses and impacted more than 400 course faculty, corporate partners and trainees from 25 countries. LAY DESCRIPTION: This manuscript demonstrates that global train-the-trainer (TtT) programmes in bioimaging create a powerful multiplier effect, rapidly expanding microscopy training capacity. By equipping imaging scientists with course materials, training, and access to a global trainer's network, it enabled second-generation courses across multiple regions, impacting over 400 individuals in 25 countries. It empowered the next generation and strengthened international collaboration to help democratise access to advanced technologies and expertise to accelerate scientific discovery and innovation. With sufficient resources, TtT is scalable across technology areas and research fields.