This September and October, FlowCam University once again hosted attendees from across the country at our Scarborough, Maine headquarters. Designed to provide in-depth, hands-on training with FlowCam instrumentation and VisualSpreadsheet software, the two-day events—one for biopharma applications and one for aquatics—offered participants a chance to connect with FlowCam experts, share best practices, and deepen their understanding of flow imaging microscopy.
The event was a resounding success, with participants praising the hands-on sessions and the personalized guidance from FlowCam team members. “This course was very helpful in increasing my knowledge and confidence in my FlowCam abilities,” said Tessa Houston of Downeast Institute.
Tailored Sessions and Real-World Applications
The course kicked off with an introduction to FlowCam basics, covering setup and sample runs, and then moved into sessions on data “wrangling” and analysis using advanced VisualSpreadsheet features like filter optimization and classification techniques.
Special topics included efficient ways to export and import FlowCam data, along with tips for adjusting capture settings depending on targeted particle properties and analysis goals. Alongside guidance from our expert trainers, participants enjoyed the chance to share ideas and strategies with each other in a large group setting.
For a more personalized experience, participants split into smaller groups for hands-on learning. In the application lab, they practiced installing and removing hardware, configuring FlowCam to match their imaging objectives, and prepping complex samples before generating data. During software sessions, participants used FlowCam demo data to work on basic and advanced particle imaging analyses in VisualSpreadsheet. They learned how to filter and sort data using particle properties, libraries, filters, and classifications. Different ways to visualize data were also explored, helping participants boost their navigation skills and get more out of FlowCam.
Each day wrapped up with practical exercises that let participants put their new skills to the test and celebrate the day's accomplishments.
For many, this was their first hands-on experience with FlowCam, and it left them with a greater appreciation for the technology and its capabilities.
“The hands-on demonstrations, particularly working in the software, were the most important components for me, and the process I had the least experience with beforehand.” —Matt Farragher, 7 Lakes Alliance
“[The most useful aspect of the training was the] office hours. After taking time to go over the basics and some advanced topics, it was really nice to get to ask questions specific to my projects.” —Biopharmaceutical Scientist
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up another successful year of FlowCam University, we look forward to enhancing our training offerings based on participant insights and keeping FlowCam University a meaningful experience. With overwhelmingly positive feedback, we are excited to continue developing new content and features that support our users’ needs.
Learn more about FlowCam University and join the fun in 2025
