2026 NanoLSI Bio-SPM Training Program
Call for Participants
Purpose of the Training Program
The Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, has pioneered the development of advanced Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) technologies and their applications in life science research, including studies of biomolecules and living cells.
To promote the wider use of these Bio-SPM technologies, NanoLSI offers a hands-on training program. The program is designed not only for researchers who are planning to start SPM-based research, but also for those wishing to acquire more advanced operational skills. Individuals who do not currently intend to use SPM but would like to gain a practical understanding of its principles and operation are also welcome to participate.
Training Course
In FY2026, NanoLSI will offer a hands-on training program, Introduction to High-Speed AFM Course, using the world-leading High-Speed Atomic Force Microscope (HS-AFM), a unique instrument capable of directly visualizing the real-time motion of biomolecules and cells in water. This introductory course is designed for beginners and provides practical guidance on HS AFM operation, sample preparation, and measurement workflow through step-by-step exercises.
Introduction to High-Speed AFM Course
Equipment
- Sample-scan type High-Speed AFM (developed in-house at NanoLSI)
Training Contents
- Structure and components of HS-AFM
- Principles of AFM measurements
- Instrument operation
- Sample preparation methods
- Data analysis procedures
- Observation of Brownian motion of protein molecules in liquid using HS-AFM video imaging
Language
- English or Japanese
Typical Schedule
(The schedule may be shifted to 10:00-18:00 if necessary. Questions are welcome at any time during the training.)
|
Time |
Contents |
|
09:00-10:20 |
Introduction to the principles of AFM with demonstrations using an actual instrument |
|
10:30-12:00 |
Observation of standard samples (Annexin or Actin) and practical training in measurement operation |
|
13:00-16:00 |
Hands-on training conducted by participants |
|
16:00-17:00 |
Image analysis using NanoLSI-developed software |
Samples Used for Observation
As this course is intended for beginners, observations will be performed using protein samples prepared by NanoLSI to facilitate understanding and efficient skill acquisition. Therefore, participants cannot bring and measure their own samples in this course.
- If you wish to observe your own samples, please consider applying for the Bio-SPM Summer School or the Bio-SPM Collaborative Research Program.
- NanoLSI is planning to establish additional courses covering both fundamental and advanced topics, including courses that may allow participants to bring their own samples.
Eligibility
- Due to ongoing development of the application and payment system, applications will be accepted only from within Japan during the period from October 2026 to March 2027.
- Researchers and technical staff affiliated with universities or public research institutions, as well as researchers and engineers from private companies.
- Previous experience using HS-AFM is not required. Applicants with prior experience are also welcome.
- Ownership of an AFM system at the applicant’s institution is not required.
- Students must obtain a recommendation from their academic supervisor.
Training Fee
- JPY 127,000 per participant (including samples, laboratory consumables, instrument usage fees, and related expenses).
Notes:
- Payment from research grants, including competitive research funds at universities and research institutions, is accepted.
- For training sessions conducted between January and March, invoices will be issued after April. If your funding source does not permit payments that cross fiscal years, please avoid selecting training dates during this period.
- If the training cannot be conducted due to circumstances attributable to NanoLSI, an alternative date will be arranged.
Application Procedure
Please apply through the Kanazawa University Seminar Application System:
https://skrs.adm.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/analysis/seminar_request
Select:
“NanoLSI-001 Introduction to High-Speed AFM Course”
and complete the required application information.
Procedures After Application
- After your application is received, NanoLSI will contact you to arrange a training date.
- Please make payment by the specified due date upon receipt of the invoice issued after the training.
Notes:
- Training is generally scheduled approximately three months after application.
- Depending on the number of applicants, multiple participants may attend the same training session.
Contact
For inquiries, please contact us by e-mail:
nanolsi_skillup@ml.kanazawa-u.ac.jp
(Replace “[at mark]” with “@”.)