Getting Started

Access to the Advanced Imaging Core (AIC) is open to all researchers and companies. Please select the path that best matches your situation to see the relevant next steps.

New to Microscopy?

“I don’t know which instrument I need.”

If you are unsure about the best technology for your sample, please first explore the AIC-Turku Dashboard and then contact us for a consultation. We can help you choose the right microscope, imaging strategy, and analysis workflow.

Use the experiment planner | Contact us for consultation

Industry / Corporate

“We are a company needing imaging services.”

We offer full-service for companies. Access requires specific contract and invoicing arrangements. Contact us for a Quote

Ready to Start?

“I know what I need, and I want to book.”

If you know which instrument you need and have a billing code, check the instrument details in the AIC-Turku Dashboard, then proceed to OpenIRIS to request training or make a reservation.

Check microscope details | Open OpenIRIS

Step-by-Step Registration Guide

We manage all reservations, billing, and training requests via OpenIRIS. Please follow these steps in order.

1. Create an OpenIRIS Account (User)

Every individual user must have their own account.

Go to https://iris.science-it.ch/ and register.
Join your Group: During registration, select your Principal Investigator’s (PI) group from the list.
- Is your group missing? Go to Services tab → click Submit request under “Add group request”.
- (Select “N/A” for organization if yours is not listed, fill in the details, and submit).

2. Activate the Project (Group Leader / Admin)

Important: Access is granted per project, not just per person. This ensures billing is directed to the correct funding source.

The Group Leader (or designated Admin) must:

Log in to OpenIRIS.
Go to the Services tab.
Search for and submit the form: “CIC project request for group leader”.
Ensure all invoicing information is accurate.

Once the facility staff approves this request, your project is active.
→ Detailed Instructions for Group Admins

3. Request Training (Mandatory)

Training is required for all new users on our specific instruments, even if you have experience elsewhere.

Option A (I know the instrument): Browse the instrument list in OpenIRIS, open the calendar timeline, and click “Request Training”.
Option B (I am unsure): Go to Services and submit a general “Imaging training request”. Specify your needs in the comments.

Outcome: We will send you the user protocols and schedule a hands-on session.

4. Request access to Taltio AIC Network (Optional)

The Taltio AIC Network is intended as a data transfer infrastructure, not as a data storage solution. This network can be used to transfer files to AIC processing workstations or individual lab storage.
Transfer and backup your data to a personal or lab drive as soon as possible after acquiring and/or processing them.
On Taltio AIC Network data is visible to all AIC users. Avoid using the network for sensitive or IP protected data.
Access to the Taltio AIC Network from personal UTU devices can be requested with this form and is only available to researchers with an active Taltio folder. Users will be able to access files from their UTU computers, but not edit or delete them.
Files older than 30 days will be automatically deleted. AIC will not be able to recover your data, please do use Taltio AIC Network for long term data storage.

Download instructions on how to use the network drives at this link.

After Registration

5. Making Reservations

Once authorized, you will see the instruments in your Scheduler timeline.
→ Guide: How to make reservations

6. User Policy

When making your first reservation, you will be asked to digitally accept the Advanced Imaging Core Facility User Policy. Please read this document carefully as it covers data management, safety, and instrument care.

7. Feedback

We are committed to improving our service. You are welcome to send comments or report issues at any time via email.