Biology 333/433 - Advanced Microscopy Techniques

Dr. Sheffield

Tuesday and Thursday, 11:40-1:00, BLS 423 - and scheduled labs in BLS 348

The purpose of this course is to investigate the variety of image transforms that are possible using the light and electron microscope. The first third of the course, approximately, will cover basic principles of optics - the nature of light, diffraction, refraction, etc., the nature of lenses, and the design of the light microscope. We will discuss phase contrast, dark field, interference contrast, and modulation contrast, as well as polarization and fluorescence microscopy. We will also discuss the use of different labeling procedures to obtain more information about samples. We will then consider several scanning microscope systems, including the scanning confocal microscope and the scanning electron microscope. These systems will be demonstrated in laboratory experiences.

The second third will be devoted to the nature of digital transformation of images. We will discuss the nature of digital images, the concepts of LUTs and transforming filters, as well as image mathematics. We will also consider the application of conventional image processing programs to microscopic samples.

For the last portion of the course, each student will be expected to select a microscopy project. Time will be divided between laboratory experiences with the different microscopes, and class discussion of the projects in process. Examples of projects by students in the past can be found here :

Much of the resource material will be on the CD that is distributed in class, although I will expect you to use additional resources when appropriate.

Grading will be based on two exams, scheduled after the first and second third of the semester, and the results of the project. The results of the project will be presented orally at the regularly scheduled Final Exam time (Tuesday 5/8 from 11:00 - 1:00).

Graduate students will be expected to prepare an additional discussion of an application of the biological techniques which will be presented as part of the lecture schedule.

The class schedule is here:

The fine print:

First class: Tuesday, Jan. 22

Last day to drop (tuition refund available): Monday, February 4.

Spring recess: No classes are held during the week March 9 - March 16.

Last day to withdraw (no refund): Monday, March 31.

Last Class: Thursday, May 1.