November 9 – 12, 2026 

Focused Ion Beam (FIB) techniques have become indispensable tools across both materials science and life sciences, enabling site-specific sample preparation, nanostructuring, three-dimensional analysis, and advanced workflows for electron microscopy. In particular, recent developments in cryo-FIB and correlative approaches have significantly expanded the role of FIB methods in biological and soft-matter research.

The Eu-FIB.net Training School 2026 aims to strengthen both the theoretical understanding and practical application of modern FIB methodologies by bringing together leading experts, instrument developers, and early-career researchers. Hosted at the Ernst Ruska-Centre (ER-C) at Forschungszentrum Jülich, the school provides access to one of Europe’s leading microscopy infrastructures, including state-of-the-art cryo-FIB and plasma FIB instrumentation.

The program combines invited lectures, tutorials, live instrument demonstrations, and intensive hands-on training in small rotating groups. Topics include ion–solid interactions, FIB instrumentation and charged-particle optics, cryo-FIB workflows, biological sample preparation, analytical and correlative methods, automation, and beam-induced deposition techniques. Dedicated practical sessions allow participants to gain direct experience with advanced FIB workflows, including lamella preparation, serial sectioning, plasma FIB operation, and correlative microscopy approaches.

The school is primarily aimed at PhD students and early-stage postdoctoral researchers seeking practical experience with state-of-the-art FIB methodologies and instrumentation. By combining lectures with extensive laboratory training, the Eu-FIB.net Training School supports the next generation of FIB scientists and fosters exchange between communities working across materials science, biology, and microscopy instrumentation.

 

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Would you like to learn about focused ion beam techniques and advanced sample preparation workflows? Join the Eu-FIB.net Training School 2026 at the Ernst Ruska-Centre (ER-C), Forschungszentrum Jülich, and gain exclusive hands-on experience with state-of-the-art FIB and cryo-FIB instrumentation. The program offers PhD students and postdoctoral researchers a unique opportunity to explore key methods and technologies, including:

  • Focused Ion Beam (FIB) Fundamentals
  • Cryo-FIB Workflows
  • Biological and Materials Science Applications
  • FIB Lamella Preparation
  • Site-Specific Milling Techniques
  • Slice-and-View / Serial Sectioning
  • Plasma FIB Operation
  • Beam-Induced Deposition (FIBID/FEBID)
  • Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy (CLEM)
  • FIB-Based SIMS and Analytical Methods
  • Automation, Scripting, and Data Analysis
  • Live Demonstrations and Hands-on Training Sessions

 

WHAT WE PROVIDE

A registration fee covering accommodation, organisational costs, and most meals will apply. The program includes:

  • Accommodation (5 nights with breakfast) at the A&O Hostel near Aachen central station
  • Daily shuttle bus between Aachen and Forschungszentrum Jülich (FZJ)
  • Coffee breaks and lunches during all training days at FZJ
  • Four full days of lectures, tutorials, live demonstrations, and hands-on training sessions
  • Practical training in small rotating groups on advanced FIB and cryo-FIB instrumentation
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities at the Ernst Ruska-Centre (ER-C)
  • Direct interaction with leading experts in focused ion beam science and technology
  • Networking opportunities with early-career researchers from across Europe and beyond

Travel to / from Aachen has to be organized and paid at your own expense.