# Workshop – Cryo-EM

**Source**: https://cryoem.iitm.ac.in/workshop/
**Parent**: https://cryoem.iitm.ac.in/

## 2nd Hands-On Workshop on Single Particle Analysis

- April 20-22, 2026

- ANRF National Facility for Cryo-Electron Microscopy, IIT Madras

This three-day workshop is designed to provide participants with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), with a focus on single-particle analysis (SPA). The event will feature a combination of lectures and hands-on sessions, enabling attendees to master techniques required for high-resolution structure determination. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will equip you with the tools and expertise to advance your research in structural biology.

## Key Highlights

The workshop will be a three-day intensive program hosted at the ANRF National Facility for Cryo-Electron Microscopy at IIT Madras. It will focus on the fundamentals and practical applications of single particle reconstruction, including:

- **Dates:** April 20-22, 2026
- **Venue:** ANRF National Facility for Cryo-Electron Microscopy, IIT Madras
- **Format:** Lectures and hands-on training sessions
- **Target Audience:** Researchers, students, and professionals in structural biology and related fields
- **Seats:** Limited (selection process detailed below)

## Instructors

### [Aravind Penmatsa](https://aplabmbu.weebly.com/people.html)

Associate Professor,\
Molecular Biophysics Unit,\
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore\
Website: [Click here to view](https://aplabmbu.weebly.com/people.html)

### [Prem S Kaushal](https://rcb.res.in/faculty/dr-prem-s-kaushal)

Associate Professor\
Regional Centre for Biotechnology\
Faridabad, Haryana\
Website: [Click here to view](https://rcb.res.in/faculty/dr-prem-s-kaushal)

### [Appu Kumar Singh](https://www.iitk.ac.in/appu-kumar-singh)

Assistant Professor,\
Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering\
IIT Kanpur\
Website: [Click here to view](https://www.iitk.ac.in/appu-kumar-singh)

### [Smarajit Polley](http://www.jcbose.ac.in/faculty-details/smarajit-polley)

Associate Professor\
Biological Sciences\
Bose Institute, Calcutta\
Website: [Click here to view](http://www.jcbose.ac.in/faculty-details/smarajit-polley)

### [Pananghat Gayathri](https://www.iiserpune.ac.in/research/department/biology/people/faculty/regular-faculty/gayathri-pananghat/311)

Associate Professor and Associate Dean
(Research and Development) \
Department of Biology,\
IISER, Pune.\
Website: [Click here to view](https://www.iiserpune.ac.in/research/department/biology/people/faculty/regular-faculty/gayathri-pananghat/311)

### [Mamata Bangera](https://biotech.iitm.ac.in/innerfaculty.php?fname=Mamata%20Bangera)

Assistant Professor\
Biotechnology\
IIT MADRAS\
Website: [Click here to view](https://biotech.iitm.ac.in/innerfaculty.php?fname=Mamata%20Bangera)

## Topics Covered

The workshop will provide hands-on training and theoretical insights into single-particle analysis (SPA) using cryo-electron microscopy. Key topics include:

## 1. Introduction to Single Particle Analysis

- Basics of SPA and its applications in structural biology
- Advantages of cryo-EM over traditional methods like X-ray crystallography
- Case studies showcasing SPA in macromolecular structure determination

## 2. Sample Preparation

- Protein/protein complex preparation for cryo-EM
- Vitrification techniques for high-quality grid preparation
- Troubleshooting common issues in sample preparation

## 3. Data Acquisition

- Overview of cryo-TEM and direct electron detectors
- Best practices for image collection and motion correction techniques

## 4. Image Processing with RELION and CryoSPARC

- Particle picking and 2D classification
- 3D reconstruction workflows
- Iterative refinement for high-resolution structures

## 5. Addressing Challenges in SPA

- Managing sample heterogeneity and particle orientation bias
- Strategies for improving particle alignment and distribution

## 6. Validation and Interpretation

- Assessing resolution and map quality
- Biological interpretation of reconstructed models

## Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will:

- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the SPA workflow using **RELION** and **CryoSPARC**
- Acquire hands-on experience in **sample preparation, data processing,** and **3D reconstruction**
- Develop strategies to address **common challenges** in single-particle analysis

## Registration Process

Seats are limited, and participants will be selected based on their research interests.

## To Apply:

Interested applicants are requested to **fill out** the application using the **Google Form link** provided below.

<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScUeQ5u7HyzioTm9omVMPT3OcsvqEYThrPckTD5HdAyWvtcGg/viewform>

Important Dates

- **Application Opening:** February 01, 2026
- **Application Closing:** February 28, 2026
- **Notification of Selection:** March 5, 2026
- **Payment Deadline:** March 10, 2026 (selected participants will receive a payment link)

Fees

- **Academic Participants:** ₹7,500
- **Industry Participants:** ₹15,000

The fee includes workshop registration, refreshments during the event, and accommodation (with breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at IIT Madras.

## Accommodation

Shared accommodation will be provided at **Taramani Guest House, IIT Madras campus.** Specific check-in/check-out details will be communicated to selected participants.

## Contact Us

For any queries regarding the workshop or registration process, please contact us during office hours (Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM IST):

- **Email:**  cryoem\_prg@icsrpis.iitm.ac.in
- **Phone:** 044-22574208/5990