Core Facility Policies
Publication Acknowledgments
In recognition of the facility’s support, users are required to acknowledge the Center for Advanced Microscopy in all publications and presentations derived from the use of our equipment.
Example Acknowledgments
General: “Fluorescence microscopy was performed at the Center for Advanced Microscopy, a Nikon Center of Excellence, at McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston (RRID: SCR_025962).”
STED: “STED microscopy was supported by NIH grant S10OD036331 and performed at the Center for Advanced Microscopy, a Nikon Center of Excellence, at McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston (RRID: SCR_025962).”
Training
To ensure the proficient use of our imaging systems, users will undergo mandatory training on the instrument of their choice. Depending on the individual’s experience, multiple training sessions may be necessary before permission is granted to operate the instruments independently. This policy aims to maintain the integrity and longevity of our equipment while ensuring the safety and efficiency of research conducted within our facility.
Care and Use of Equipment
Users must adhere to established guidelines for instrument usage to preserve the quality of the equipment and maintain equitable access for all researchers. Failure to comply, such as leaving oil on objective lenses or otherwise neglecting proper care, will result in charges at the “Assisted Use” rate and may lead to revocation of facility privileges.
Sample Preparation
It is expected that users conduct preliminary screening of fluorescence staining on conventional fluorescence microscopes before utilizing advanced microscopy resources. Users should possess a working knowledge of basic immunostaining, fixation techniques, slide preparation, and the fundamental principles of fluorescence microscopy.
Collaborations
Interactions extending beyond basic operational instruction should evolve into collaborative efforts, warranting co-authorship on resulting publications. This acknowledges the intellectual contribution and collaborative spirit within the facility, with agreements reached by mutual consent.
Scheduling Imaging Systems
Booking Sessions in Advance
Users have the privilege to book up to two sessions exceeding 4 hours each per week, more than 24 hours in advance. This policy is designed to ensure fair access to our imaging systems while allowing for substantial research time.
Special Permissions
Users requiring advanced booking of more than two long sessions (over 4 hours) within a single week must seek prior approval from core facility staff. This ensures that excessive demand does not hinder the progress of other researchers.
Short Notice Booking
All users can book sessions of any length within 24 hours before the start of the imaging session. This allows for flexibility in research schedules and accommodates urgent experimental needs.
iLab Accounts and Billing
Account Selection at Reservation
Users are responsible for selecting the correct funding account when making a reservation in iLab. Once a reservation is made, the account cannot be changed by Center for Advanced Microscopy staff. Please confirm the account before submitting each booking.
PI Management of iLab Groups
Principal Investigators are responsible for managing their own iLab research group, including which users belong to the group, which accounts are listed, and which users have access to each account. Center for Advanced Microscopy staff do not have access to add or remove users or accounts, or to change account permissions, within a PI’s iLab group. Users who need access to an account should contact their PI.
These policies ensure that all users are familiar with operational standards, booking procedures, and collaborative ethics, fostering a productive and respectful research environment. Compliance with these guidelines is essential for the continued success and accessibility of the fluorescent microscopy core facility.