Using The Salk’s Flow Cytometry Core Facility
FCCF has 5 analyzers and 4 cell sorters. The Core facilitates access to Flow Cytometry technologies
through three main service categories: Staff Operated Cell Sorting, Cell Sorting Training, and
Analytical Flow Cytometry Training. The following sections guide users on how to access Flow Core
Services.
Salk Institute Researchers:
- Review FCCF’s current Core Access and Usage information on Salkland (link below).
- Review FCCF’s current training plan, complete any self study materials listed on Salkland.
- Contact the core to discuss your experimental needs and identify instrument(s) to train you on.
At this time we can go over any protocols you will use to prepare samples for flow analysis. For
maintaining instrument cleanliness, samples must include a DNAse I clean up (see Help File
document on Salkland for more information and examples of where it can be conveniently
included during sample preparation).
- Training: Orientation will be arranged (2 sessions, one to learn the processes, a second session
to demonstrate proficiency). Upon completion, scheduler access is activated and we will
schedule follow-up staff supported analysis session(s) as needed with the goal of helping you
become independent.
➢ Click to go to Salkland (salk.edu/fccfaccess)
- Review FCCF’s current Core Access and Usage information on Salkland (link below).
- Review FCCF’s current training plan, complete any self study materials listed on Salkland.
- Contact the core to discuss your experimental needs and identify instrument(s) to train you on. At this time we can go over any protocols you will use to prepare samples for flow analysis. This will include going over what is needed to generate sort ready samples (e.g. DNAse I cleanup step to ensure a low viscosity high quality sort sample, and appropriate pH buffered sort buffers).
- Training: This takes place over a couple of sessions, in order to cover key skill blocks we require autonomous users to learn. We will arrange some “practice” sessions for you to demonstrate proficiency. Upon completion, access to the Google calendar will be shared. Follow-up staff supported analysis session(s) will be scheduled as needed with the goal of helping you become independent.
➢ Click to go to Salkland (salk.edu/fccfaccess)
- Before starting an experiment needing FACS (fluorescence activated cell sorting), read through
FCCF guidelines on preparing for cell sorting. Be sure to include a DNAse I clean up step (or
discuss alternatives with FCCF staff); this is to ensure you have a high quality, low viscosity
sample appropriate for sorting.
- Submit a sort request form (on Salkland) BEFORE starting a time sensitive experiment.
➢ Click to go to Salkland (salk.edu/fccfaccess)
