{"id":3669,"date":"2025-02-05T11:34:53","date_gmt":"2025-02-05T16:34:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.med.unc.edu\/flowcytometry\/?page_id=3669"},"modified":"2026-03-17T10:44:17","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T14:44:17","slug":"training","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.med.unc.edu\/flowcytometry\/services\/training\/","title":{"rendered":"Instrument Training & Independent Use"},"content":{"rendered":"

Flow Analyzer Training<\/h2>\n

The UNC Flow Cytometry Core Facility will train users who wish to independently operate the flow analyzers through a multi-part training program. To initiate training, please create an iLabs account<\/a>. Once you have created your iLab account, you can initiate training by following these steps:<\/p>\n

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  1. Submit a request<\/a> for Flow cytometry introductory training through iLabs.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    In response you will be given lifetime access to the online training modules and additional resources in WORK-FLOW.\u00a0 We require all users to complete The FlowEssentials course<\/strong> which provides the basics of how a flow cytometer works, including what is going on inside “the box” when the users activate various functions. Training on full-spectrum instruments additionally requires completing the FlowSelect – Full-Spectrum course<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

    Upon completion of the online course(s) you will need to submit your Certificate of Completion by following the instructions provided in the WORK-FLOW email.<\/p>\n

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    1. Meet with the UNC Flow Core Facility director for a one-on-one consultation.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      This initial consultation is aimed at helping you avoid common Flow Cytometry pitfalls, and further developing your experimental plans.<\/p>\n

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      1. Schedule Instrument-Specific Training with the Flow Core Staff.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        Instrument training is required for each instrument a user would like to run independently. During this initial training users will get acquainted with the fluidics, optics, and software on the flow cytometer. This first in-person training is scheduled for 3 hours, and will be a one-on-one training with a UNC Flow Core Staff member. Instrument specific details for the first training will be provided by the Flow Core Staff when the appointment is scheduled.<\/p>\n

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        1. Schedule a follow-up Training with the Flow Core Staff.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          During the follow-up training users are asked to provide samples for analysis. The follow-up appointment with staff is required within 2 weeks of the initial instrument training- this training will ensure the user and staff are confident in the user ability to operate the instrument.<\/p>\n

          Once instrument training is completed users will be granted iLab calendar access and 24\/7 core access.<\/strong><\/p>\n

          Training policies can be found on our Policies page<\/a><\/p>\n

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          BSL1 Sorting Training<\/h2>\n

          The UNC Flow Cytometry Core Facility will train users who wish to independently sort non-biohazardous BSL1<\/strong><\/span> samples independently on the FACSMelody<\/a>. Users who want to independently sort cells at the UNC flow core will need to complete the following.<\/p>\n

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          1. Submit a request<\/a> for Flow cytometry introductory training through iLabs.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            If not completed previously, complete the FlowEssentials course<\/strong> in WORK-FLOW which provides the basics of how a flow cytometer works. Next complete the FlowSelect – Cell Sorting course<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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            1. Request instrument training<\/a> and select the FACSMelody under Additional Instrument Training to schedule a multi-part in-person training with Flow Core Staff.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              The training sessions will include the following:<\/p>\n