Training

Instrument-Specific Trainings (“introductions”)

Before operating analyzers independently, users must complete an instrument-specific training session (“introduction”). An introduction is required for each analyzer you plan to use. To schedule a session, please contact facslab.dbmr@unibe.ch. 

Introduction to Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting (FACS) Course 

We also offer a comprehensive course providing both theoretical and practical training in flow cytometry and cell sorting. The course covers topics ranging from basic principles to cutting-edge technologies and applications, including: 

  • Experimental planning and setup for flow cytometry 
  • Multicolor panel design 
  • Spectral flow cytometry 
  • Mass cytometry 
  • Imaging flow cytometry 
  • Cell sorting 
  • Biomedical and clinical applications 
  • Basic and advanced data analysis 

This course is recommended for Master’s and PhD students, postdocs, as well as other staff from biomedical or cell biology research laboratories with ongoing or planned projects that include flow cytometry or cell sorting. 

To obtain the course certificate and qualify for 2.0 ECTS, participants must attend the entire course. Absences are permitted only with prior justification and must not exceed 20% of the total course time (max. 10% theoretical + max. 10% practical/demo). 

On the final day, participants will be asked to give an oral presentation demonstrating how they apply flow cytometry in their projects.

  • Dates: Once per semester. Specific dates vary based on the availability of tutors. 
  • Time: Equivalent to one full week, held over non-consecutive days. 
  • Organizers/ Tutors: Dr. Míriam Díaz Varela, Dr. Stefan Müller. 
  • Additional Tutors: Dr. Fiona Appiah, Dr. Thomas Schaffer, Dr. Cristina Zivko, Dr. Joseena Iype and additional invited speakers. 
  • Venue: DBMR, Murtenstrasse 24-28, 3008 Bern 
  • Application/Registration: To apply, please contact the course coordinator, Dr. Míriam Díaz Varela (miriam.diazvarela@unibe.ch) for the application form. Course fees of CHF 625.- will be charged prior to the start of the course. Students affiliated to the Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB) and listing this course as mandatory in their doctoral agreement will get 50% of the course fees reimbursed by the GCB.