Guidelines for user lab

Step 1: User account and project application

Researchers interested in becoming autonomous users of ScopeM instruments shall apply for a user account and submit their project application. See How to become a ScopeM user.

Step 2: Safety training

Prior to be able to work autonomously on ScopeM instrument(s) and thus receiving the so-called “driver license”, the following safety trainings need to be completed and corresponding forms/certificates provided to ScopeM:

On-line course “How to play it safe in the lab” **
Any further safety trainings as specified by the ETH safety regulations (if applicable)
Chemical safety forms (if needed, with the support of ScopeM staff)

** The course “How to play it safe in the lab” is provided on the online-training-portal of SSHE (scroll down to the very bottom of the page to find the online version). It is available anytime and can be completed within a couple of hours. After successful completion, the participants receive a certificate by e-mail within two to six weeks. The latter certificate must be forwarded by email to ScopeM staff member in charge of the training - respectively of delivering the “driver license” - with copy to ScopeM office. This is a mandatory prerequisite for the delivery of the “driver license”.

Step 3: Instrument training

New users are trained on sample preparation (if necessary) and the operation of the specific instrument(s) needed for their project. Depending on the instrument type, a group-wise or an individual training is provided. At the successful completion of the training, each user must take a “driving test” on the instrument to become a qualified user. Only qualified users who got their “driver license” can book the instruments and get access to the infrastructure of ScopeM. Different levels of access to specific functions (e.g. special attachments, analytical functions) or options for the various instruments may be granted. Note that the actual duration of the training depends both on the complexity of the instrument and the expertise level of the user.

Step 4: Accessing instruments and running experiments

Instrument scheduling and booking can be accessed online (external pageinstrument booking). Most instruments can be accessed and used off-hours as well (from 18:00 to 8:00 and weekends). On some instruments however, off-hours access is granted only to experienced users and might require extra training.