The 2025 Cape Light Microscopy Course (CLMC) brought together 24 post-graduate students, early career researchers and research staff to learn about the fundamentals of optical imaging. Run by the IDM Microscopy Platform (IDM-µ) at the University of Cape Town’s Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM) and Africa Microscopy Initiative Imaging Centre (AMI-IC) from 29 July – 1 August, this four day workshop combined hands-on practical training sessions, theoretical lectures and interactive tutorials.

The course drew expertise from across institutions, with teaching faculty from the IDM-µ, AMI, other UCT faculties, and Stellenbosch University’s BMRI. Participants represented UCT, University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, University of the Free State, University of Pretoria, with international attendees from Egypt and Kenya contributing to the diverse learning environment. Over four intensive days participants covered foundational light and fluorescence microscopy concepts from the physics of optics to advanced techniques, including widefield fluorescence microscopy, high content imaging, confocal microscopy, and quantitative image analysis. Practical training sessions provided hands-on experience with cutting edge fluorescence microscopes at the AMI Imaging Centre, while discussion sessions covered practical topics like dye and filter selection and experimental design and planning.

The course's combination of theory, practical training, and networking opportunities created an engaging learning experience. As one participant noted: "Such a fantastic experience—it was really great, and I hope you run this again next year! It was wonderful to meet such a broad range of people and has made me excited to continue in academia."

Watch out for announcements about CLMC 2026 and other upcoming training opportunities from IDM-µ and AMI-IC.