A crucial aspect of core operations is our education and training initiatives. These activities help us promote the core services, provide an ideal opportunity to receive feedback from users, and most importantly, empowers users to take full-advantage of the resources provided by the Flow Cytometry Core.

The core staff provides consultations on all aspects of flow cytometry including education and training regarding instrument usage, data analyses, software, and experimental set-ups. The level and depth of training provided varies depending upon specific user needs and applications and is commensurate with the skills and experience of the individual user. User training is usually an ongoing process and the level and type of assistance adapts as users become more experienced and their demands change. The Core views training and education activities as an important value-added service which is made possible primarily because of the organized structure of the core, as well as the availability of personnel and instrumentation.

The ongoing planned education and training activities of the Flow Cytometry Core are:

a. Individual Training to Operate the Instruments: Users can receive one-on-one training to operate the LSR-II follow cytometer. After users have been trained they can then use the LSR-II independently of the core manager, which allows them to receive a discount on service fees. Trained users may still receive additional help and guidance as required. Requests for this type of training to operate the LSR-II are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

b. Customized Group Training: Group training tailored to the requirements of individual research groups is provided on an as needed basis. This type of training includes a demonstration of the LSR-II cytometer with an overview of basic instrument configuration, typical set-ups which cover the applications used in the laboratory, general instrument operation, and data analyses. Follow-up consultations are available after this initial training appointment. Typically, following the group presentation, individual users are then given additional one-on-one training as they start to use the core.

c. Software And Data Analysis Training: Flow cytometric analysis can generate large volumes of complex data that can be challenging to analyze for inexperienced users. The core manager and director work with individual users to familiarize them with data analysis software such as CellQuestPro, FlowJo, and FACSDiva. Users are also given guidance regarding appropriate gating strategies, the use of statistics, and the limitations of flow cytometry. Workstations for data analysis are available to users and a site license for the FlowJo software package is in place in conjunction with the UAB Arthritis center and Flow Cytometry Core. Typically approximately 14 users receive this type of training each year.

d. Experimental Design and Set-Up: One of our most common training activities is providing users with guidance that enables them to apply flow-based approaches to their own research endeavors and take full advantage of core resources. The core staff provides users with help and advice regarding specific experimental protocols and flow cytometric applications. Where necessary, users are referred to other members of the campus community that can provide expert advice on particular applications.

e. Seminars and Presentations: The core manager and director present occasional seminars to help educate and inform exisiting and potential new users about the Flow Cytometry Core and the power of flow cytometry. Announcements for these seminars are presented on the CFAR website.