Registration to BioAFM Summer School
July 6-7, 2026
2 days
English
300 EUR
Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology
Entry requirements: PhD students, postdocs and researchers interested in biophysics, molecular mechanics and structural biology
Application starts: May, 2026
Application deadline: 26 Jun, 2026
About the course
Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) has become a powerful and indispensible tool in modern biological research, enabling nanoscale imaging and force measurements on biomolecules, cells, and tissues. This two-day intensive course provides both theoretical background and hands-on training in AFM applications in biology. The course is organized by the Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology at Semmelweis University, with more than two decades of experience in AFM-based research.
Entry requirements
The course is designed for PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and researchers interested in biophysics, molecular mechanics, structural biology, and biological applications of Atomic Force Microscopy. Participants with a background in medical, health, life sciences, physics, biophysics, molecular biology, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
Participants’ limitation: min 5 – maximum 20
Required language proficiency
Excellent English communication skills are recommended.
Required level of English: IELTS 6, 7, 8, 9.
Training overview
This two-day hands-on course provides an introduction to Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), combining theoretical foundations with practical laboratory experience. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of AFM imaging principles, instrumentation, and applications in biomolecular and cellular research.
The program begins with interactive lectures covering the physical principles behind AFM, including elasticity, resonance, resonant frequency, and cantilever mechanics. Participants will explore different AFM imaging modes, cantilever types, surface characteristics, and techniques for scanning biological samples under dry and liquid conditions. Topics such as surface immobilization and force spectroscopy will also be introduced.
Practical laboratory sessions allow participants to work directly with an educational AFM system. Hands-on exercises include cantilever deflection measurements, resonance frequency analysis, and surface topography imaging. During the second day, participants will perform complete AFM measurements independently, including sample preparation, cantilever tuning, and image acquisition on a variety of biological samples such as DNA, proteins, and cells.
The course also introduces multimodal imaging approaches combining AFM with light microscopy techniques. Throughout the program, participants will have opportunities for discussion, troubleshooting, and individual guidance from instructors.
The summer school concludes with an overview of future perspectives in AFM research and the distribution of certificates to participants.