Using SRNML: For Students

Assisted and Unassisted equipment training and use

The SRNML is a user facility, encouraging students to participate in preparing and observing their materials. Use of the major instruments requires a charge that partially reimburses our maintenance and operations costs. Usage should be arranged following consultation with SRNML personnel; reservations and logging and done through our iLab site.

OU student users fall into two categories, which are coded into our iLab equipment reservation system.

Occasional users. Researchers who have only a limited need for the facilities of the SRNML may arrange for all or portions of the work to be performed by SRNML personnel, on a time available basis, through Assisted Use.
Qualified instrument operators. Researchers whose work requires the use of one or more of the microscopes and the support equipment are encouraged to become qualified operators of the instruments and to do their own work. To become a qualified operator, a researcher must be certified by SRNML personnel that he/she is qualified to operate a particular instrument. Certification must be obtained for each instrument separately, at which equipment can be reserved through iLab for Unassisted Use. The pathway to for students to become a Qualified instrument operator is through training as Assisted Use.

It is also possible to collaborate with SRNML personnel and have them collect and share data on specimens that you provide to them; please discuss this during your initial consultation. Follow the steps on the ‘Get started with SRNML use’ page to get started.

Courses and Graduate Certificate in Microscopic Imaging & Technology

Graduate students are invited to receive intensive training in theory and practice with the Advanced Light Microscopy (spring), Scanning Electron Microscopy (spring) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (fall) courses. Reach out to any of us with questions and to request permission to enroll, spots may fill up early.

BIOL/MBIO/PBIO 5364 Transmission Electron Microscopy (4 credits). Instructor: Dr. Julian Sabisch
BIOL/MBIO/PBIO 5374 Scanning Electron Microscopy (4 credits). Instructor: Dr. Preston Larson
BIOL/MBIO/PBIO 5394 Advanced Light Microscopy (4 credits). Instructor: Dr. Tingting Gu

Additionally, graduate students may separately apply to participate in the Graduate Certificate in Microscopic Imaging & Technology. This is an excellent way to demonstrate the knowledge and practice you gain from your intensive training to a wide range of future careers.

Events and outreach

We welcome your participation in a range of events and outreach activities. Please let us know if you’re interested!

Focused Friday semi-weekly events, 11am on many Fridays
Student membership in the Oklahoma Microscopy Society (OMS), a local affiliate of the Microscopy Society of America, providing local and international networks of microscopy students and professionals.
K-12 visits and community events, at OU, in schools, and in the community. We have an amazing time sharing the excitement of microscopy and science with kids, families, and community members.

Useful Links

SRNML Email Sign-Up

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