Course description
The Micro Spectroscopy Centre (MSC) and the Wageningen Light Microscopy Centre (WLMC) of Wageningen University jointly organize an advanced practical course, funded by VLAG & EPS, for PhD candidates and postdocs. The course covers both theoretical and hands-on training in a range of advanced microscopic and microspectroscopic techniques with broad applications in Food and Plant Sciences.
Course content
The course offers a complete program, starting with proper sample preparations and a fundamental understanding in the optics of image and contrast formation, including key concepts like resolution, diffraction and image generation. With a focus on confocal fluorescence imaging and the currently available range of probes, participants will gain an overview of all bright-field imaging techniques available at WUR. Advanced imaging methods like spinning disk, multiphoton, multispectral, TIRF, FRET, FLIM and STED will be explored to obtain quantitative data on molecular localization and interactions at super resolution either in living cells or in complex food samples. Practical sessions include advanced demonstrations in small groups of max. 6 participants.
In addition, we have included a Fiji/ImageJ tutorial (hands on) to introduce the basics of data processing and to guide participants in identifying suitable algorithms for their quantitative research questions. The overall aim of this course is to equip participants with a clear understanding of how to select suitable imaging methods and apply effective data processing strategies tailored to their project research needs
Date: 2-4 February 2026
Location: Radix-West (WLMC), Helix (MSC) at WUR Campus
Target group: PhD candidates & postdoc
Participants: max. 24 (selection based on submitted abstract and microscopy needs)
Study load: 0.9 ECTS
Organizers: EPS (contact: Juliane Teapal) & VLAG with the MicroSpectroscopy Research Facility and the Wageningen Light Microscopy Centre of Wageningen University (contact: Norbert de Ruijter)
Lectures & Tutors:
- Norbert de Ruijter (WUR-Cell and Developmental Biology)
- Peter van Gisbergen (WUR-Cell and Developmental Biology)
- Jan Willem Borst (WUR-Biochemistry)
- Arjen Bader (WUR-Biophysics)
- Johannes Hohlbein (WUR-Biophysics)
More information:
Fee:
The course fee (which includes coffee/tea during breaks, lunches and one dinner but does not cover accommodation) depends on the participant’s affiliation:
| Affiliation | Early Bird fee** | Regular fee |
|---|---|---|
| VLAG/EPS and other WU PhD candidates* | € 260 | € 310 |
| Other PhD candidates | € 520 | € 570 |
| Postdocs registered with EPS | € 390 | €440 |
| Postdocs registered with VLAG | € 520 | € 570 |
| Staff affiliated with VLAG and EPS | € 520 | € 570 |
| All other postdocs and academic staff, non-profit | € 1040 | € 1090 |
| Industry / For-Profit organisations | € 2000 | € 2050 |
* VLAG/PE&RC/EPS/WIAS/WASS/WIMEK PhD candidates with an approved TSP
** Early bird fee applies to anyone who REGISTERS ON OR BEFORE 1 December 2025
Cancellation Policy:
- You can find someone to replace you in the course and supply the course coordinator with the name and contact information of your replacement.
In this case you will only be charged a € 50 – cancellation fee. - You ( PhDs and postdocs ) have a valid reason to cancel (illness or death in the family 1st or 2nd degree).
In this case you will be charged the reduced fee and your supervisor/PI must send a mail indicating the reason for cancellation.
Deadline:
The final registration date is 14 December 2025.
We kindly ask you to submit a short description of your research question, and why you would like to join the course during the registration. You will be notified on acceptance of your registration a few days after the deadline. Additional information will follow afterwards.