UG Summer Placement 2025 - University of Edinburgh

Learn more about the Institute for Regeneration and Repair here. 

Project Overview

The BD FACSDiscover S8 Cell Sorter is a cutting-edge instrument that combines spectral flow cytometry with real-time imaging capabilities. It allows users to obtain detailed spatial and morphological insights while analysing and sorting cells.

The successful applicant will use S8’s spectral and imaging capability to measure changes to mitochondrial morphology that occur in stimulated human lymphocytes. Changes to mitochondrial morphology occur during lymphocyte stimulation and can be observed using high-resolution microscopy. The aim of the project is to determine if the S8 can be used to observe and analyse the same process, potentially offering a high throughput solution.

The successful applicant will be involved in;

• Culturing primary human lymphocytes in vitro: gaining hands-on experience in cell culture techniques, specifically culturing primary human lymphocytes. This involves preparing culture media, maintaining cell lines, and ensuring optimal growth conditions.
• Staining Samples for Flow Cytometry: learning and applying various staining protocols to prepare samples for flow cytometry analysis. This includes selecting appropriate antibodies and fluorochromes and optimising staining procedures.
• Running flow cytometry samples on BD S8: becoming proficient in operating the BD S8 Cell Sorter, including calibrating the instrument, setting up experiments, and acquiring data.
• Data analysis and visualisation: analysing flow cytometry data using specialised analysis software and learning to interpret data sets, identify patterns, and visualise results in a clear and meaningful way.
• Presentation of results: presenting updates at weekly lab meetings. This will involve preparing presentation materials, summarising data, and effectively communicating their results.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the placement the successful applicant will have knowledge and experience of:

• Facility flow training and Introduction to Flow: gaining comprehensive training in the basics of flow cytometry, including an introduction to the technology and its applications.
• S8 specific training: In-depth training on the BD FACSDiscover S8 Cell Sorter, focusing on its unique features, optical parameters, and advanced capabilities.
• Flow sample preparation: Hands-on experience in preparing samples for flow cytometry, including staining, fixation, and gating strategies.
• Spectral flow cytometry: Understanding the principles and applications of spectral flow cytometry, enabling the student to analyse data sets and multi-parameter experiments.
• Machine operation and maintenance: Proficiency in operating flow cytometry instruments and performing routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and accurate results.
• Presentation and contribution to weekly lab meetings: Opportunity to develop communication skills by presenting findings and contributing to discussions in a collaborative lab environment.
• Seminars and community events: Exposure to the research taking place in the Institute for Regeneration and Repair by attending institute seminars and community events, facilitating professional growth and networking.

In addition the successful applicant will gain skills and experience beneficial to their future career development, including:

• Gain an insight into an analysis technique used in research and technical roles in academia or industry.
• Professional networking: Participation in lab meetings, seminars, and networking events will help to build professional connections, opening doors to future collaboration and career opportunities.
• Hands-on experience: Practical experience with cutting-edge technology and techniques which will make the successful applicant a competitive candidate for research positions.
• Communication and presentation skills: Regularly presenting findings and engaging in project discussions will strengthen the successful applicant’s ability to communicate complex information effectively, a crucial skill in any scientific career.