# Interactive, Self-Paced Training Modules for Cryo-EM and Cryo-ET Novices

> **NIH NIH R25** · UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · 2021 · $124,200

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract
 Cryo-EM and cryo-ET have emerged as indispensable tools to visualize biological structures across a
broad range of scales, from small molecules and proteins to entire cells. Despite the growing enthusiasm for
these methods, cryo-EM and cryo-ET are relatively inaccessible for several reasons: first, there are inadequate
training materials for cryo-EM and cryo-ET novices; second, there is a growing expertise gap between
experienced practitioners and newcomers; and third, few institutions have the means to procure and maintain
the high cost of instrumentation. In order to address these limitations, we created ‘CryoEM 101’, a self-paced,
interactive online course that uses a user-friendly and media-rich approach to engage and teach newcomers
on the basics of the typical cryo-EM project workflow. We now propose to expand CryoEM 101 by developing
new content that emphasize best practices in sample and grid preparation, creating self-assessment quizzes
for users to gauge their learning, and integrating our training material with a broader “merit badge” certification
program that is currently under development. We also propose to create CryoET 101, which will be modeled
after CryoEM 101 by using video, 3D animation, and interactive modules to teach the principles and best
practices underlying cryo-ET. Like CryoEM 101, CryoET 101 will be divided into several chapters, each of
which will focus on a distinct step along the cryo-ET workflow and will contain visually engaging modules that
teach core principles. The accuracy and quality of the training material will be evaluated by separate Advisory
Boards for cryo-EM and cryo-ET that consist of subject experts in each method. User proficiency will be
assessed through end-of-chapter and end-of-course quizzes. Overall, the goal of this proposal is to guide cryo-
EM and cryo-ET newcomers to a point along their training where they can independently prepare and optimize
their specimens for high-quality data collection at dedicated EM centers.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10223007
- **Project number:** 2R25EY029124-04
- **Recipient organization:** UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- **Principal Investigator:** Julia Brasch
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $124,200
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 2018-05-01 → 2024-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10223007

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10223007, Interactive, Self-Paced Training Modules for Cryo-EM and Cryo-ET Novices (2R25EY029124-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10223007. Licensed CC0.

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