I'm managing a new confocal microscopy (Zeiss LSM 410) core facility, and
am looking for advice from more experienced folks on how to increase my
confocal expertise and keep up with advances both in equipment and
in biomedical research applications.

Most of the work done here is in neurobiology, cell biology, and
developmental biology; about a quarter of it involves in vivo imaging.  My
personal interests are 3D imaging of organelles and cytoskeletal activity.
I have a lot of background in the science of cell and developmental
biology, but not quite as much in computer science, image
processing/analysis, or microscope technology.

What meetings or courses would you recommend? What's your experience been
with the Microscopy and Microanalysis meeting (the one that's in Cleveland
this year)?  Is it informative for people working in the biosciences or
does it tend toward other specialties?

Also, has anyone taken the Zeiss macro programming course?  In your
opinion, is it worth the $2500 tuition (this was the price quoted to me by
a Zeiss rep)?

What are the journals to watch?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

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Theresa C. Swayne               [log in to unmask]
Confocal Microscopy Facility     (212) 305-2281
Columbia University                or  305-2807