Okayama University Hosts Hands-On Cryo-Electron Microscopy Training Weekend

On June 13, 2026, Okayama University conducted its first Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM) training weekend at the Tsushima campus’s Co-Creation Innovation Lab. The hybrid event, which took place on May 29-30, included both in-person and online components, attracting 49 participants—14 attending in person and 35 joining online. This event represented a significant opportunity for researchers and students from various universities, including Okayama University, Okayama University of Science, Kochi University, and Nagoya University, to learn about cutting-edge methodologies in structural biology.

The primary focus of the training was on mastering protein structure analysis techniques using Cryo-EM. Under the guidance of Associate Professor Osamu Numamoto and Assistant Professor Byung-Chang Choi, participants engaged in practical exercises employing the analysis software CryoSPARC and ChimeraX. The interactive nature of the workshop, featuring both hands-on tutorials and lectures, allowed attendees to develop a foundational understanding of how to analyze protein structures effectively.

Participants were encouraged to ask questions and interact throughout the sessions, promoting an engaging learning environment that appealed to both seasoned researchers and novices. The training aimed to demystify complex concepts surrounding cryo-electron microscopy and its applications in modern science, especially for individuals unaccustomed to this sophisticated technique.

Cryo-electron microscopy stands at the forefront of scientific research, with its ability to reveal protein structures crucial for understanding molecular function. This innovative approach has far-reaching implications, potentially addressing challenges in drug development, energy solutions, food security, and environmental sustainability. As such, the demand for expertise in this method continues to grow across various research fields.

To further bolster its research capabilities, Okayama University has incorporated advanced cryo-electron microscopy machines, including the Krios G4 (300 kV) from Thermo Fisher Scientific, which commenced shared usage starting February 1, 2024. The University is also set to introduce the Arctis cryo-plasma FIB-SEM for cryo-tomography by November 1, 2025. These state-of-the-art facilities will benefit not only the university community but also external partners, broadening access to critical technological advancements in structural biology research.

Looking ahead, Okayama University is committed to strengthening its role as a leading institution for innovative research and education. The University invites contributions from various sectors to enhance its impact further, demonstrating a proactive approach to knowledge dissemination and fostering partnerships that bridge academia and industry.

For anyone interested in reviewing the workshop content or seeking more information about the training weekend and the International Center for Structural Biology (ICSB), they can visit the university’s event webpage: ICSB Training Weekend.

Envisioning a sustainable future, Okayama University embraces its vision as a core research institution and a hub for cross-disciplinary collaboration, ensuring that it continues to contribute significantly to scientific advancements worldwide. Whether in structural biology or other innovative domains, Okayama University stands ready to support research endeavors that prove pivotal in today's complex global landscape.