Users must supply their own grids and grid boxes
Users are responsible for storing their own grids
Users must supply a hard drive for transferring data
All hard drives (unless brand new in packaging) will be reformatted by the facility staff prior to data transfer
Data MUST be transferred in a timely manner
Once data has been transferred the facility will no longer bear responsibility for storing the data- PLEASE make sure you keep a redundant backup of all your data as we assume no responsibility for data loss in the event of data workflow issues
Users are responsible for analyzing their own data
The facility does not currently provide analysis workstations, please do not use the computers in the microscope control room for your data analysis
Facility staff cannot analyse data on behalf of users, but are available for questions and consultation
We recommend these computing resources
We recommend these analysis software packages
Before users are allowed to schedule bookings they must demonstrate their project is appropriate for cryo-EM using the sample proposal form
Booking of screening sessions is prioritised by project feasibility
The priority for the Glacios is screening and exploratory data collection; the priority for the Krios is multi day data collection
Data collection sessions will be scheduled on a priority basis depending on project feasibility, quality of grids, initial data, and wait time
24 hour data collection is inclusive of set up time and runs from 10.30am to 10am the following day
Overnight data collection runs until 10am the following day
Each lab may only have one weekend collection booked at any one time
Weekend collections must involve samples that can be collected all weekend with no additional input from operators
For full day and weekend data collections, grids must be pre-approved
There should be a backup for saved grids, and in the case of grid loss a penalty for not going forward due to lack of sample will be charged
Vitrobot use is scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis after project approval
The Vitrobot is available for half-day sessions, either 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
You finish using the Vitrobot by the end of your booked session, or you will be charged for 2 sessions
All training must be done by facility staff
Preparation and loading of autogrids will be done by facility staff, not users
Staff will designate users as super-users when they are satisfied the user can operate the microscope software without supervision
Users must undergo training from facility staff in order to independently use the Vitrobot
Users must undergo training from staff in order to set up data collections and screen grids independently
Trained super-users can set up data collection and carry out screening on behalf of other members of their group but are NOT permitted to train other users.
Users may not enter the Glacios and Krios microscope rooms
Appropriate PPE must be worn when handling liquid ethane and liquid nitrogen
No food or drink in the Talos room or sample prep room
If working alone, users must notify another person of their whereabouts
If there are issues with the equipment the user should notify Claire immediately
At no point should a user attempt to fix equipment by themselves