The workshop teaches scientists from various fields of life sciences the proper handling of scientific images for publications. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of all relevant aspects of digital images, including file formats, metadata, bit depth, and histograms. Practical exercises using the professional software Fiji (ImageJ) enable the application of ethically correct methods for image processing and analysis.

Content

• Proper editing of scientific images for publications and good scientific image handling practice
• Understanding all aspects of digital images (e.g. file formats, metadata, bit depth, histogram,…)
• Proper merging of fluorescent channels and use of pseudo-colors and calibration bars
• Proper application of 2D projections from 3D data
• Optional: short glance on 3D reconstruction options in Fiji/ImageJ
• Scaling images to units (e.g. µm) via metadata and adding scale bars
• Uneven lighting correction methods for visualization
• Background correction methods
• Proper contrast adjustment respecting good scientific practice limits
• Avoiding data alterations when exporting images for publication figures
• Introduction to the vector graphic software Inkscape for efficient publication figure creation
• Creating example figure

Aim 

The workshop aims to provide scientists with a better understanding of the "do's" and "don'ts" when processing, editing, and analyzing digital images. Participants will be shown the possibilities and methodologies for extracting a wide range of information from their digital images.

Target Group 

Doctoral Researchers and Postdocs working with digital images and their analysis. The workshop focuses on life sciences, but the content is generally applicable to all fields. No prior knowledge of the software is required.

Method

The workshop combines interactive live lectures with practical exercises in a virtual format. We will work with a specially adapted version of Fiji (ImageJ bundle) as well as with Inkscape. Both programs are free, open source, and easily accessible. No prior experience with the software is required, though it may be helpful.

All registered participants will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare and install the software via email in advance of the workshop.

Dr. Stefan Lang, Scientific and Medical Writer