FAQs - University of Utah Flow Cytometry

Q: Q.10 I belong to Microbiology and Immunology, how do I get access to those flow instruments.

If you are new to the Division of Microbiology and Immunology and want access to their restricted flow cytometers here are a couple things you should know. First of all you will need to reach out to HSC Flow Core staff flowcytometry@cores.utah.edu to schedule training. Once you have initiated this request we will generally immediately ask PATH-IT to add you to the approved user list. Once on this list you should be able to access the instruments in Outlook Calendars. Here are instructions for finding them . For training, the process is the same so please reference FAQ 1

Q: Q9. How do I get trained for self run cell sorting?

In general here are the steps for getting trained to do self run sorting. Schedule the Aria for a 9am sort for 1.5 hours (please note in the description that this will be for self run training). This will NOT involve cells or actual sorting. We will spend that time starting up the instrument, doing qc and calibrations etc.. At that point ideally you come in some other morning and practice using your notes and SOP. For the most part if your sorting during normal hours we will have everything ready for you and you wont get much practice for the off chance you end up having to sort on the weekend or something like that. Finally, you can schedule an actual sort with your cells and we will finish up the cell sorting training. After sorter training is complete, please finalize the process by taking our self sort quiz . There are a few more details that come up on a case by case basis that are best left to in person conversations.

Q: Q8. Where are your instruments located?

We have instruments all over campus. Here is a map to help you find the closest to your lab. map with instruments

Q: Q7. How do I get access to the Data Server?

First off, we will need your UID and Lab. So please send that info to flowcytometry@cores.utah.edu. After you have been added to the list follow these instructions to get access to your data. Windows- Open a File Explorer window, click on network in the left pane, then paste \\flow.cores.utah.edu into the address bar. Hit enter and then type ad\UID and password in the pop up window Mac- -Go->connect to server -smb://flow.cores.utah.edu->connect – Type ad\UID and password in the popup window.

Q: Q5. What do I need to bring for a cell sorting appointment?

Samples- Your samples can be in 5ml tubes or 15ml conical. You should aim for a concentration around 10 million/ml for cell lines or 15 million/ml for lymphocytes. If you don’t have nearly that many cells, don’t resuspend in less than 500ul. Buffer can be anything that the cells are happy in. More detailed info here Controls- For fluorescent protein work we need an untransfected sample to set up the instrument. For multicolor experiments we need unstained in addition to single color controls. Collection Tubes- We can collect into eppendorf, 5ml, 15ml 50ml or 96well plates. Each collection tube should have collection media already in the tube. Extra media- In case there is a clog and a sample needs to be resorted. Jump Drive- If you need your data files Ice- If appropriate.

Q: Q2.How can I get access to facility instruments after hours?

In order to get your ID card activated for WINTROBE you need to go to the core facilities administration office located at Old Skaggs, Bldg 582 Rm 250. Terra Curley (3-2926) or Audrey Grisham (3-2928) will need your ID number and also the 6 numbers following the 2* on the back of the card. If you need access to HCI contact Jeni Urry- jeni.urry@hci.utah.edu or Ali Homsombath- alison.homsombath@hci.utah.edu ” If you need access to SMBB email James Marvin at jmarvin@cores.utah.edu.

Q: Q1. How can I start using your facility?

First of all watch the Onboarding video for the Flow Facility In order to get access to the scheduler to reserve instruments, you will need to fill out the Work Authorization Form . Analyzer Training- We normally like to do instrument training 1 on 1 with actual samples. That way we can tailor the training specific to your assay and set up a template and instrument settings with you. We highly recommend the educational seminars prior to training. Step 1- Contact the lab and request training ( flowcytometry@cores.utah.edu ) Step 2- Fill out “ Request for Analyzer Training ” form Step 3- Get Trained