# Interactive, Self-Paced Training Modules for the Cryo-EM Novice

> **NIH NIH R25** · UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · 2020 · $29,702

## Abstract

Project Summary / Abstract
Cryo-EM has emerged as an indispensible tool to visualize biological structures at high resolution. Despite the
growing enthusiasm for this field, cryo-EM is a relatively inaccessible method for several reasons: first, there are
inadequate training materials for cryo-EM novices; second, there is a growing expertise gap between
experienced practitioners and newcomers; and third, few institutions have the means to procure and maintain
state-of-the-art instrumentation. To address these limitations, we propose to create a self-paced, interactive
online course using a media-rich and user-friendly approach that targets cryo-EM newcomers. Our curriculum
aims to bridge the expertise gap by providing practical guidance on steps along the standard single particle cryo-
EM project workflow. Our centralized “CryoEM-101” website will bring cryo-EM principles and protocols to life
using video, 3D animation, and interactive simulations. The curriculum will cover pertinent topics divided into five
chapters: sample purification, grid preparation and optimization, grid screening and evaluation, data collection,
and data processing. Each chapter consists of an overview summary and a list of learning objectives, followed
by individual, digestible modules that focus on a specific concept along the workflow. Importantly, our curriculum
will teach users how to maximize their efforts using modest instrumentation. Overall, the goal of this proposal is
to guide newcomers to a point along their training where they can independently prepare and optimize their cryo-
EM specimens in preparation for high-quality data collection. We will have an Advisory Board that consists of
cryo-EM experts to evaluate our curriculum as it is developed. Local cryo-EM trainees will be recruited to test
the training material and feedback will be sought through discussion group meetings and voluntary surveys.
Upon launch of the Cryo-EM 101 website, the course will be shared broadly through announcements at meetings,
social media, and the design of a massive open online course (MOOC).

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10231956
- **Project number:** 3R25EY029124-03S1
- **Recipient organization:** UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- **Principal Investigator:** Janet Iwasa
- **Activity code:** R25 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $29,702
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2018-05-01 → 2021-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10231956

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10231956, Interactive, Self-Paced Training Modules for the Cryo-EM Novice (3R25EY029124-03S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-28 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10231956. Licensed CC0.

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