BPS2026 – Using national center cryo-EM merit badges for standardization of best practices and modular training frameworks

Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has transformed the structural sciences by enabling researchers to visualize complex molecular machines and cellular assemblies in near native conditions. To broaden access to these cryo-EM technologies, the NIH has established a network of cryo-EM service centers to provide state-of-the-art instrumentation at no cost at the point of access to researchers across the nation. These service centers also offer hands-on cross-training designed to expand the capabilities of the national workforce by helping laboratories without prior experience to become self-sufficient in cryo-EM methodologies. To support this training mission the centers have jointly developed the cryo-EM merit badge framework, which is inspired by the scouting merit badges. This modular system breaks down the cryo-EM workflow into practical, skill-based steps. Cryo-EM badges are organized into three key areas: (1) sample preparation, (2) microscope operation, and (3) data processing. Most importantly, the creation of a cryo-EM badge draws on learning materials generated by the national center network and is publicly available online at cryoemcenters.org. The cryo-EM badge framework is adaptable so researchers across a wide range of fields can pursue a customized training curricula aligned with their needs, while also ensuring a foundational level of core knowledge. Each cryo-EM badge establishes shared standards across the service center network and certifies proficiency in a particular cryoEM focused skill. Moreover, earning a badge at one center qualifies a user to operate instrumentation at all the participating national service centers. In addition, this merit badge framework includes the cryo-electron tomography network and associated national cryo-EM service facilities. By combining structured training through cryo-EM badges, the centers are not only expanding adoption of cryo-EM methods across disciplines, but strengthening the structural biological toolkit for next generation of structural scientists.