Instruct PartnerApplications are open for the MALDIBANK training course "MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Identification of Yeast and Filamentous Fungi Isolates", hosted by the Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute on 17-18 November 2026 in Utrecht, The Netherlands.
One of the aims of MALDIBANK is to create a global, cloud-based, open-access platform for microbial MALDI-TOF MS spectra to improve the identification of microorganisms. This training will provide an overview of identification of yeast and filamentous fungi using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, covering the entire workflow from sample preparation from liquid media for filamentous fungi and from solid media for yeast to data interpretation. The course is intended for people already familiar with basics in laboratory practice in microbiology/mycology.
The training will combine theoretical lectures with hands-on workshop and is designed as an introduction to the method. Particular emphasis will be placed on practical aspects of protein extraction and spectra acquisition for both yeast and filamentous fungi. Participants with more advanced experience are encouraged to bring their own questions and discuss specific challenges.
The course is for members of the MALDIBANK project only and free of charge. Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation.
At the end of the course, the participants should be able to:
Perform sample preparation for MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry from solid culture media for yeast, and from liquid culture media for filamentous fungi, including extraction
Load the protein extracts to the MALDI-TOF plate and overlay with HCCA matrix
Load the target plate on the MALDI-TOF spectrometer and run the software to acquire the spectra
Determine quality of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry spectra
Perform and interpret identification results using MALDI-TOF software
Schedule (CEST Time Zone):
Day 1:
12:00-12:30 - Arrival & Lunch
12:30-13:30 - Introduction and welcome + SOP discussion
13:30-14:00 - Sample inoculation
14:00-15:30 - Yeast protein extraction, loading on target plate and acquisition of spectra
15:30-15:45 - Break
15:45-17:30 - Hands on practice (yeast)
Day 2:
9:00-9:15 - Arrival
9:15-10:30 - Filamentous fungi protein extraction, loading on target plate and acquisition of spectra
10:30-10:45 - Break
10:45-12:30 - Hands on practice of filamentous fungi protein extraction, loading on target plate and acquisition of spectra
12:30-13:00 - Lunch
13:00-15:00 - Continuation hands on practice & troubleshooting, questions and discussion
Deadline to apply is 3 November. To reserve a place, contact the training centre directly via e-mail to j.coelho@wi.knaw.nl
Venue: The course will take place at the Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
