Histology Core User Policy

Full-Service Histology

To request histology services, please fill in the project request form. Email the electronic copy to Edgardo with a drop-off date, and leave the paper copy and samples on top of the red tissue processor in the hallway. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions.

Self Service Histology

Mandatory Training for Self Service Users

The following pieces of equipment require basic operation and safety training for all new users. Training is conducted virtually via online videos. Note that fees apply for all training.

  • Paraffin microtomes

  • Cryostat microtome

  • Cryofilm Use

Click Here to Request Training

Upon completion, please send a direct email to Dr. Arroyo, so that we know that you finished training online and tell us your comments. 

As part of this form, you must agree that your PI will be charged to be given access to our google calendar..

If you are unable to fill the online training, please contact Dr. Edgardo Arroyo. He will email you a link to the training video. After watching the video, email Dr. Arroyo at earroyo@pennmedicine.upenn.edu to arrange a phone call to review key training aspects, including safety. Note that standard training fees still apply.

The histology core has implemented special rules for self-service users.

Safety

Please be aware that these policies will be strictly enforced. Any violations will result in access to the core being terminated.

  • Per McKay Lab policy: A lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves MUST be worn at all times. We only provide gloves and disinfectant spray. You MUST bring your own safety glasses and lab coat. Sharing lab coats and safety glasses is not permitted. If you normally wear prescription glasses, safety glasses must also be worn over these glasses.
  • The area you use must be left clean with alcohol and dried before AND after use.

Equipment Reservations

  • Users who have received training on specific equipment will be provided access to Google Calendars to make reservations
  • For McKay lab users, reservations should use the following format:
    • PI Initials : PennKey : phone number
  • For non-McKay users, reservations should use the following format:
    • PI Name : User name : phone number

As a reminder, the equipment locations are as follows:

  • Bay 344B: Cryostat I (LEICA), Cryostat III (Thermo)
  • Bay 344C: Tissue Embedding Center, Paraffin Microtome B, Paraffin Microtome D (Low Profile Blades), Plastic Microtome,
  • Bay 345B: Paraffin Microtome A (Thermo)
  • Bay 345C: Cryostat II (Thermo)
  • Bay 346B: Paraffin Microtome C
  • Room 342A: Eclipse 90i Microscope

Additional Action Items for Non-Penn Users

  • Complete new mandatory EHRS safety training. Specifically, users must register with EHRS at this site.  Once registered, you will be directed to an EHRS webpage for training.  When finished, you will be able to download a training certificate and will be forwarded directly to a webform to notify EHRS of completion.  You will receive an email confirmation of your completed training. When completing the form, please enter the following information in the relevant fields:
    • Principal Investigator/Program Director: Lachlan Smith and Ling Qin
    • Department/Program: Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders Histology Core
    • Building Location: Stemmler Hall Room 350
    • Supervisor: Edgardo J. Arroyo