Cryo-EM Resource Center
Access cryo-EM resources including interviews, podcasts, webinars, and expert testimonials.
Learning and Launches
Stay up to date with all our electron microscopy product launches, application technique discussions, and maintenance notices.
What’s new
Cryo-EM Grant Program updates
95 doctoral or postdoctoral scientists from over 20 countries submitted applications to the first annual Thermo Scientific Cryo-EM Grant Award Program on or before March 31. Four judges from Thermo Fisher Scientific who are experts in Cryo-EM workflows are scoring the applications, and the top ten finalists and three winners will be announced in mid-May.
Solving structural puzzles in virology
Cryo-EM is helping overcome challenges in virus purification and protein homogeneity. Read interviews and case studies highlighting how cryo-EM is moving structural virology forward.
Customer highlights
Scientists from Institute for Protein Design take the Tundra Cryo-TEM for a test run
Disrupting mitochondrial diseases
Drs. Andrew Borst and Ryan Kibler from The University of Washington’s Institute for Protein Design visited the Thermo Fisher Scientific Microscopy Facility (NanoPort) in Hillsboro, OR, to run samples and see the Thermo Scientific Tundra Cryo-TEM demonstrated live. Their experiences were outstanding, especially for Ryan, who had never used cryo-EM before and now feels like he can generate his own data!
"Most things in life don't function in isolation. It's about bringing all of these parts together and understanding how they connect," says Dr. Danielle Grotjahn at Scripps Research Institute. At the interface of structural and cell biology, the Grotjahn lab is using cryo-tomography to understand mitochondrial dysfunction andmake the case for more statistical measurements.
Cryo-Talk Podcast Season 2 is here
The second season of the Cryo-Talk Podcast is now underway. On the Cryo-Talk Podcast, we feature conversations with luminaries in the field of electron microscopy and discover what drives them and their research and what they’re passionate about in life.
Educational resources
Ask the Experts: Enhance your Tomography Skills with Tomography 5 Software
Thermo Scientific Tomography 5 Software's user-friendly interface supports both experienced and new users to jump-start their tomography data acquisition. Paired with Thermo Scientific Tomo Live Software, the combination enables on-the-fly quality monitoring of incoming data and, for the first time, automates the tomogram reconstruction process. Register today to see a demo of Tomo Live Software and get your questions answered by our tomography software experts.
Revealing conserved co-factor functions through structural analysis of alphacoronavirus polymerase
Dr. Robert Kirchdoerfer demonstrates how cryo-EM was used to determine the structure of the alphacoronavirus porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) core polymerase complex bound to RNA. Their work highlights the importance of studying diverse coronaviruses to reveal aspects of replication while also identifying areas of conservation to be targeted by antiviral drugs.
Visualizing membrane dynamics by electron microscopy
May 23, 2023 | 8 a.m. EDT
Dr. Shigeki Wantanabe of John Hopkins University explores the processes of neurotransmission on the spatial and temporal scale. Driven by the need to visualize vesicle dynamics at the ultrastructural level, his lab has developed novel approaches in electron microscopy to capture fast membrane remodeling events during synaptic transmission.
Ask the Experts: What’s new in Smart EPU Software
June 21, 2023 | 8 a.m. PDT | 11 a.m. EDT | 17:00 CEST
Thermo Scientific Smart EPU Software was designed to simplify cryo-EM single particle analysis (SPA) while increasing efficiency and productivity. It provides on-the-fly monitoring of data collection sessions through image evaluation programs and AI-assisted decision-making Smart Plugins, helping users avoid manual interventions in routine and time-consuming tasks. Join our webinar to learn about the latest improvements and features of Smart EPU Software and get your questions answered by our software experts.
Glacios 2 Cryo-TEM and the Evolution of 200 kV Cryo-EM
Previously, 200 kV instruments were largely seen as screening tools that could be used to optimize samples for higher-resolution 300 kV instruments. However, advanced components and software have allowed 200 kV cryo-TEMs to experience their own “resolution revolution.”
Obtain cell insights easily and quickly from a single software environment
Watch on-demand an introduction of Thermo Scientific Amira Software and learn how this analytical software solution provides quick and accurate insights and results from your cell biology imaging data. During this webinar, we present you real use cases from a high-level perspective.
White paper—Smart EPU Open API
Smart EPU Open API is an open application programming interface (API) of Thermo Scientific Smart EPU Software. It allows development of User Plugins for Smart EPU Software. Download this white paper to learn Smart EPU Open API’s software requirements and how it works.
In case you missed it, the following webinars are available for on-demand
- Obtaining mechanistic insights into the mitochondrial stress response using cryo-electron microscopy
- Showcasing the Power of Volume EM Across Disciplines
- Using integrative biophysical approaches to understand GPCR regulation by β-arrestins
Be inspired
EM University
Visit EM University to learn about the foundations of cryo-EM, including the single particle analysis (SPA) workflow, via step-by-step instructions, expert demonstrations, and theoretical lessons.
Cryo-EM podcasts series
Get to know some members of our scientific community and their latest work.
Latest software updates
Get the latest software updates to access to the newest improvements and features for your electron microscopy.
Smart EPU 3.4 Software
- Open APIs allows you to develop custom plugins that interact with Thermo Scientific Smart EPU Software, utilizing AI/ML capabilities for evaluating microscope output and adjusting settings, while fostering collaboration within the cryo-EM community.
- The Center C2 aperture block in SA Microprobe (uP) mode on Thermo Scientific Tundra Cryo-TEM now centers the 150 μm C2 aperture.
- Traffic Lights have been updated to display more informative messages for warning states (blue) and error states (red).
Tomography 5.14 Software
- Work with Screened Atlases without Loading on Stage.
- Autofocus settings used during Optimized position calibration in STEM can be changed in Autofunctions → Autofocus Linear. The calibration process utilizes the Autofocus Linear settings specified by the user.
- Movie Player in Tilt Series in Batch Mode dramatically improves the loading speed of movies by using saved thumbnails.
Velox 3.9 UI Software
- OptiSTEM/AutoSTEM directly accessed via Velox Software (requires latest TEM server).
- Improvements for 4D STEM: virtual STEM images for the live preview during acquisition.
Microscope Companion (MiCo) 1.9
- Recovery of the Optics Board after degradation can now be performed on the Optics page.
- Progress information is displayed for the Insert and Retract functionality of SmartStage.
A note from Service
Supporting Yale Microbial Sciences Institute with service
Learn how you can increase productivity with the Connected Care Portal
Cryo-tomography has helped the Yale Microbial Sciences Institute see details that aren't possible with other techniques. Their service engineer helps them troubleshoot less common problems so they can continue to gather data on their Thermo Scientific Krios Cryo-TEM. Learn about their research and our partnership with their facility.
To get the most out of your instrument, you need the right tools and resources. Our web-based Connected Care Portal layers system data with advanced algorithms to deliver impactful insights. This webinar demonstrates the portal and shows how access can increase productivity.
Service Portal
Our service portal gives you quick access to our service request form, software updates and contact information for your local service team.
Upcoming Conferences
Want to know how cryo-EM can help you? Come and chat with us at one of our booths to learn about the latest trends.
- May 15–19, 2023 | PEGS Boston summit
- June 6–8, 2023 | Antibody Engineering & Therapeutics Europe
- June 7–9, 2023 | Hungary Biopharma Conference
- June 11–16, 2023 | Gordon Research Conference - Progressive Technologies and Approaches Revealing Novel GPCR Biology and Drug Development Potential
- June 13–16, 2023 | 3rd RSC Anglo-Nordic Medicinal Chemistry Symposium
- November 12-14, 2023 | Protein Structure Determination in Industry
What’s new
Cryo-EM Grant Program
Apply for your chance to win one of three awards of up to $10,000 USD in products. Open to graduate and post-doctoral students. Tell us how you plan to use cryo-EM to accelerate and advance your research. Applications will be accepted through March 31, 2023.
Year in review: Breakthroughs in cancer research with cryo-EM
Cryo-EM is enabling scientists to visualize proteins that have never been visualized before. Check out our recent blog post highlighting some of the amazing structures released this year in cancer research.
Understanding the complexity of cancer with cryo-EM eBook
See how your peers are leveraging structural insights to better understand the conditions for cancer cell growth and to identify new ways to treat cancer. Find interviews and research highlights in cancer research employing cryo-EM.
Volume electron microscopy with Helios 5 Hydra Plasma-FIB
VolumeEM was named as one of Nature's 7 technologies to watch in 2023. The Helios 5 Hydra DualBeam is designed with the new PFIB technology that allows higher throughput milling for consistent, high-quality data acquisition at room temperature or cryo conditions. Access large horizontal surface areas up to 1 mm in diameter and acquire 3D data of nanometer-thick slices with Spin Mill technology. See how Helios 5 Hydra DualBeam can facilitate high quality VolumeEM results.
Celebrating women in cryo-EM
Join us in celebrating the women in cryo-EM. Hear stories from featured researchers in cryo-EM from a variety of life science fields from across the globe. Be inspired and encouraged, and set out on your own journey in science.
Customer highlights
Cryo-EM grant push earns university a Tundra Cryo-TEM
Virginia Commonwealth University is now home to one of the first Thermo Scientific Tundra Cryo-TEMs in the United States thanks to Dr. Montserrat Samso and her impassioned effort to expand access to cryo-EM.
Cryo-EM Podcast Series: The Plunge with hosts Mimi, Mike, and Liz
The Plunge brings together leaders and new scientists in the cryo-EM community to examine the field’s collective work, touch upon salient issues within the community, and discuss the future of cryo-EM.
Educational resources
Ask the Experts: National Cryo-EM Centers: A go-to resource for getting started in cryo-EM
Wednesday, February 8, 2023 | 8 a.m. PST | 11 a.m. EST | 17:00 CET
Cryo-electron microscopy centers are some of the most valuable resources to the cryo-EM scientific community, and they continue to grow in their capabilities and offerings each year. In this webinar, we will discuss routes to access cryo-EM infrastructure and training.
Webinar: Addressing the challenges of membrane protein sample preparation for cryo-EM analysis
Wednesday, March 1, 2023 | 7 a.m. PST | 10 a.m. EST | 16:00 CET
In this webinar, we will discuss the current challenges of membrane protein sample preparation and share strategies and best practices to improve the success rate of sample preparation to obtain high-quality cryo-EM results.
Webinar: Using integrative biophysical approaches to understand GPCR regulation by β-arrestins
Thursday, March 2, 2023 | 6 a.m. PST | 9 a.m. EST | 15:00 CET
On March 2, 2023, in partnership with Drug Target Review, we will host a webinar with Dr. John Janetzko of Stanford University, who will be demonstrating the advances made in GPCR research using a combination of cryo-EM and mass spectrometry.
Application note: Best practices for preparing apoferritin grids
In this app note, you will find recommended settings for preparing apoferritin grids using the Thermo Scientific Vitrobot Mark IV System and Thermo Scientific VitoEase Apoferritin Standard protein, along with suggestions for preventing common pitfalls.
Always on resources
Cryo-EM Resource Center
Access cryo-EM resources including interviews, podcasts, webinars, and expert testimonials.
Ask the Experts
Join our interactive Q&A sessions to stay connected to the latest science through conversations on unique topics.
Latest software updates
Get the latest software updates to access to the newest improvements and features for your microscopy electron microscopy.
Smart EPU (EPU 3.3; EQM 1.12; Athena 1.19)
- Discovery Viewer allows users to investigate the exact grid square and foil hole where an image was acquired
- Smart EPU Open API allows users to develop User Plugins, algorithms that evaluate microscope outputs and influence Smart EPU Software according to their specific needs
- Smart Filter performance is improved and supports hexagonal grids under the Holey Gold type
Tomography 5.13 (Tomo Live 1.13; Athena 1.19)
- Optics settings of high SA presents can be linked to the Exposure preset
- Parameters that can be linked include ProbeMode, Magnification, Spot Size, Illuminated Area, Intensity, Insert Slit and Slit Width
- For each Auto Function task, Tomography Software now selects the relevant preset automatically
- Per-tilt CTF Determination has been added to Tomo Live Software
- Reduced loading time when switching between volumes
Velox 3.8
- EDS Batch Processing is now available for new paid option
- Improvements for Electron Dose Control (EDC)
MAPS 3.23
- Move or rotate multiple tile sets
- Stitch option is now compatible with multi-select
MiCo 1.8
- Layout improvements of the detector page
- High Tension value is displayed on Electron beam page
A note from Service
Cryo-EM services reduce learning curve
With cryo-EM being a new specialty for the LNNano lab in Brazil, reliance on outside experts wasn’t an option. Read how the training offered in our service options shortened the learning curve and led to the publishing of critical research findings.
Cryo-TEM accessory list
Use this list to quickly reference the part numbers of the accessories used in your workflow. Contact our service and support team to place your order.
Events
Microscopy Conference 2023 | Have you reserved your seat yet?
February 26 – March 2, 2023 | Darmstadt, Germany
Meet the new Thermo Scientific Glacios 2 and Tundra Cryo-TEMs at our booth with our application scientists. Save your seat at our lunchtime workshop to hear the latest developments in the field of cryo-FIB for cellular tomography.
What’s new
Meet the new Glacios 2 Cryo-TEM
The Thermo Scientific Glacios 2 Cryo-TEM features an integrated Thermo Scientific Falcon 4i Direct Electron Detector, Thermo Scientific EPU Software, and a new full enclosure, all of which combine to enhance image quality, automate data acquisition, and simplify your work.
Embedded CryoSPARC Live
Meet the new software solution, a version of Structura’s CryoSPARC Live, that is designed to integrate with Thermo Scientific Smart EPU Software and cryo-transmission electron microscope technology.
A note from Service
When was the last time you scheduled a check-up for your life science workflows? Maintain the speed and efficiency of your life science instruments with a preventative service check-up. Whether you would prefer dedicated on-site care or the flexibility of remote diagnostics, preventive maintenance ensures that your life science workflows are at peak performance.
Scientific Workflows App
The Scientific Workflows App is an assistant that can be carried along all systems in the workflow. This cloud-based application predicts the best workflow based on given system configuration and sample/grid type. And, based on process results, the application provides workflow improvements to optimize the process. Access to the premium version is available with our Accelerate and Advance service packages.
On-demand webinar: Capturing productivity with better system insights
Our goal is to give you all the tools and resources you need to be successful with your scientific instrument. Our secure, web-based Connected Care portal layers system data with advanced algorithms to deliver impactful insights about your system’s productivity. This webinar demonstrates the Connected Care Portal and shows how access can provide insights and increase productivity.
Workflow validation for SPA
Successful single particle analysis requires seamless coordination across multiple systems. If one aspect is not optimized, a high-resolution data set may not be successful. Our workflow validation is a standardized test to verify correct functioning under conditions at your site.
Product care
Get the latest software updates for your Thermo Scientific system
Download terms for Thermo Scientific software
Be sure to receive continuous workflow updates with the free version of the Scientific Workflows App
Education
Cryo-EM learning center
Access cryo-EM resources including interviews, podcasts, webinars, and expert testimonials.
Ask the Experts
Join our interactive Q&A sessions to stay connected to the latest science through conversations on unique topics.
Publications
We have made it easy to find and access the most up-to-date cryo-EM publications.
Customer highlights
Thermo Scientific Arctis Cryo-FIB Collaboration with The Rosalind Franklin Institute
Cryo-EM Podcasts: Scientists discuss their work, interests, and more
Need assistance from one of our experts?
Yes, I would like to speak with an expert to learn how Thermo Scientific products can help maximize my laboratory’s productivity.
What’s new in life sciences research
Work more efficiently with Smart EPU Software
Thermo Scientific Smart EPU Software can help you automate single particle analysis data acquisition using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The easy-to-use suite guides you through the workflow to help increase throughput and deliver accurate, reproducible results.
Cryo-tomography software
Jumpstart tomography with Tomo Live Software
Thermo Scientific Tomo Live Software is a new add-on for Tomography 5 Software that delivers on-the-fly reconstruction with data curation, helping new and experienced users jumpstart their workflow.
Service for your life sciences instruments from Thermo Fisher Scientific
When was the last time your life sciences workflows had a checkup? Preventative service is important for maintaining the speed and efficiency of your instruments, and it ensures that you’re getting peak performance. Reach out today to schedule on-site care or convenient remote diagnostics.
Consumables and accessories for cryo-EM instruments and labs
Keep your lab stocked with the tools, accessories, and essentials you need.
- Sample preparation equipment
- Accessories for Thermo Scientific Krios, Talos Arctica, Glacios, and Tundra Cryo-TEMs
- Assorted supplies
Contact your account manager to order.
FAQ for cryo-EM instruments
How do I order custom apertures for the Thermo Scientific Aquilos Cryo-FIB?
- Contact your account manager for a quote, or complete the Contact Us form at the bottom of our services and support webpage.
How do I order consumables for my cryo-TEM?
- Email your local service and support team with the serial number of your microscope and either the part number or a description of the item you need. Part numbers are available on our accessories sheet.
Do you have any helpful information for preparing cryo-EM samples?
- For beginners, EM-Learning has over 70 hours of lectures and videos to help you get started. We also have videos and documents, including screening kits and solutions, to help guide your cryo-EM work. Our website also lists five steps for successful cryo-EM sample preparation.
Where can I get the latest software?
- Our TEM applications update page has the latest releases and trial versions of Thermo Scientific AutoScript, EPU, EPU-D, Imaging codec, Inspect3D, Tomography, and Velox Software. We also offer dedicated life sciences software packages that simplify and accelerate complex visualization, analysis, and data management.
Remote service for your cryo-EM instrument
RAPID Remote Diagnostics
Did you know that a service contract gives you free access to RAPID remote diagnostics? Using remote screen sharing, the RAPID platform allows Thermo Fisher Scientific service staff and application specialists to quickly diagnose and repair issues—all through a secure VPN connection.
Thanks to recent upgrades, RAPID is now a cloud-based service offering faster connection speeds, better video technology, improved security, and support for both the microscope controller and support PC.
Cryo-EM product care
Cryo-EM education
Cryo-EM learning center
Explore interviews, podcasts, webinars, end expert testimonials on cryo-EM.
Ask the experts webinars
Stay connected to the latest science with conversations on unique topics and interactive Q&A sessions.
Cryo-EM customer highlights
Studying virology at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria
Advances in Cryo-EM Tau Protein Structure Studies Unravel Neurodegenerative Mysteries
Image courtesy MRC, UK
Cryo-EM support
Speak with one of our experts to learn how Thermo Scientific cryo-EM products can help maximize your productivity.
What’s new
VitroEase Apoferritin Standard
The Thermo Scientific VitroEase Apoferritin Standard is a highly validated pure protein for use as a quality control sample for cryo-electron microscopy single particle analysis.
Features of the VitroEase Apoferritin Standard include:
- Positive control sample—apoferritin protein production optimized and validated for use in cryo-EM grid preparation and analysis
- Rigorously tested—high-quality, consistent protein standard documented via lot-specific certificates of analysis
- Convenient—ready-to-use format with each single-use vial sufficient for 5–6 grid preparations
Cryo-TEM for higher biosafety-level facilities
The new 60°C heat decontamination solution enables Thermo Scientific Krios G4 Cryo-TEM installations and support in higher biosafety-level containment facilities (e.g., BSL-3).
Falcon 4i Direct Electron Detector
The Thermo Scientific Falcon 4i Direct Electron Detector is 30% faster than the Falcon 4 Electron Detector without compromising image quality.
A note from Service
When was the last time you scheduled a check-up for your life science workflows? Maintain the speed and efficiency of your life science instruments with a preventative service check-up. Whether you would prefer dedicated on-site care or the flexibility of remote diagnostics, preventive maintenance ensures that your life science workflows are at peak performance.
Product care
Get the latest software updates for your Thermo Scientific system
Download terms for Thermo Scientific software
Have continuous workflow updates with the free version of the Scientific Workflows App
Education
Cryo-EM learning center
Explore interviews, podcasts, webinars, end expert testimonials on cryo-EM.
Ask the experts webinars
Stay connected to the latest science with conversations on unique topics and interactive Q&A sessions.
Customer highlights
Human Technopole
Max Planck Institute, Dortmund
Need assistance from one of our experts?
Speak with one of our experts to learn how Thermo Scientific cryo-EM products can help maximize your productivity.
Style Sheet for Global Design System
Style Sheet for Komodo Tabs