About AMI Training Programs The visitor program consists of exclusive access to one of four microscopes for up to four weeks. This access includes dedicated assistance and guidance from a technical expert who will work alongside you in performing successful and informative experiments. During this time, we allow for development of imaging experiments from pilot studies to full scale experiments. Projects are selected based on scientific merit by a panel of global researchers. Projects using samples up to BSL2 can be accommodated. Up to two researchers from a selected project will be provided transport to the AMI Imaging Center from anywhere on the continent as well as accommodation for the duration of the visit. Free and supported access to advanced commercial fluorescence microscopes Zero cost One-month visiting scientist program Accommodation and air travel Laboratory reagents Ship samples Expertise Work together with experts

PiTCH is delivered through two linked phases, designed to support the full lifecycle of collaborative training from partnership formation to workshop implementation. These phases are: Phase 1 : Train-the-Trainer Mentorship Phase 2 : Workshop Implementation in Africa Phase 1: Train-the-Trainer Mentorship (January–December 2026) Phase 1 is currently underway During Phase 1, selected African and Global Partners are paired into teaching partnerships and supported through a structured mentorship process led by experienced international microscopy mentors. Meet the 2026 selected Train-the-Trainer Mentorship Cohort The 2026 inaugural cohort brings together African and Global Partners with complementary expertise and a shared commitment to strengthening microscopy training through collaboration and mentorship. Selected to participate in Phase 1 of the PiTCH Fellowship Program, participants have been paired into teaching partnerships, with one African Partner and one Global Partner forming each teaching pair. These pairs are now actively engaged in a structured mentorship process. Together, they form the PiTCH community. Get to know the 2026 Train-the-Trainer Teaching Pairs Cohort below. Phase 1 Dr Mai Atef Rahmoon – African Partner Egypt I am an imaging scientist trained at the Advanced Imaging Center (AIC), Janelia Research Campus (HHMI). My journey into microscopy began the moment I saw dynamic cellular ruffles moving under the microscope—an experience that sparked a deep curiosity and a lasting love for imaging. With a background in molecular biology, I now work in advanced quantitative microscopy, image analysis, and microscopy training. I am passionate about train-the-trainer approaches, mentorship, and making microscopy accessible. Through AMI PiTCH, I aim to share what I have I learnt in microscopy and bioimaging across Africa, highlighting the power of microscopy to drive discovery and build sustainable scientific communities in complex imaging technologies. Read More Ms Kelly Nyanchama – African Partner Kenya Institute of primate research, Infectious diseases and One Health department, Malaria Laboratory Kenya I am a Research Fellow in the Infectious Diseases and One Health Department at the Kenya Institute of Primate Research (KIPRE), where I serve as a parasitologist supporting research on neglected tropical diseases including Malaria. I have been trained extensively through the Africa Microscopy Initiative openScopes Fellowship, Molecules to Human Imaging Bootcamp, and Spatial MultiOmics Workshop. As a master's student studying Microbiology and Parasitology, I am passionate about building sustainable microscopy capacity in East Africa. Additionally, I am co-developing the Kenyan Bioimaging Consortium to expand imaging training and resources across the East Africa region Read More Miss Nonkululeko Phili – African Partner Laboratory for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Pretoria, South Africa I am an Analyst Scientist at the Laboratory for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Pretoria, with prior experience at the Centre for Microscopy, University of the Free State. I specialise in advanced microscopy, including optical, electron, and confocal laser scanning techniques, and excel in preparing complex biological samples. With over six years of experience, I provide training and guidance to students and researchers, develop innovative sample preparation methods, and support reproducible, high-impact research. Passionate about scientific excellence and knowledge sharing, I am committed to advancing skills, fostering collaboration, and contributing to the international microscopy research community Read More Ms Wiame Aissoug – African Partner National Biotechnology Research Center, Bioengineering Platform, Algeria I am biotechnology engineer and PhD student affiliated with the National Higher School of Biotechnology and the Biotechnology Research Center (C.R.Bt), where I work as an R&D engineer contributing to the development of a bioengineering platform and its bioimaging unit. My research focuses on CRISPR-based genetic engineering, molecular delivery, microfluidics & micropatterning, and 3D bioprinting. I am a co-founder of MIMIC-AL, an Algerian biochips startup developing innovative biotech solutions. Read More Dr David Olubiyi Obada – African Partner Ahmadu Bello University, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nigeria I hold a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (production/industrial engineering) from Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria. I was a Postdoctoral Fellow at Atlantic Technological University, Ireland, and have held research positions at the University of Ghana, NEERI India, the University of Birmingham, and MIT, where I earned a Kaufmann Teaching Certificate. My research interests include musculoskeletal bioengineering, advanced materials, and condensed matter physics. I am currently a faculty member at Ahmadu Bello University, coordinating two NRF TETFund projects and serving as Outreach Officer for the Africa Centre of Excellence on New Pedagogies in Engineering Education (ACENPEE). Read More Dr Matlakala Claudia Ntsapi – African Partner University of the Free State, School of Biomedical Sciences, NeuroPhyVitality Research Hub South Africa I am the Principal Investigator of the NeuroPhyVitality Research Hub, where I lead a team investigating the neuroprotective and anticancer properties of bioactive compounds derived from indigenous phytomedicinal plants and functional foods, with a central focus on mechanistic research into autophagy in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and cancer. During my doctoral training, I played an integral role in establishing a correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) workflow at Stellenbosch University’s CAF Facility to characterise APP overexpression in one of the first stably expressing APP transgenic in-vitro models of AD in South Africa. This work integrated fluorescence imaging with ultrastructural validation. Read More Mr Todd Shelper – Global Partner Griffith University, Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics Australia I am a biomedical researcher from Australia specialising in high content imaging and quantitative image analysis. I am also an associated with Griffith University and currently reside in Switzerland. I have over 10 years’ experience with academic research and hands-on microscopy training. I am excited to be selected as a Global partner in the PiTCH Fellowship initiative and hope to gain valuable skills in guided mentorship, international collaborations, curriculum design and teaching. Read More Dr Catherine Heyward – Global Partner University of Oslo, Institute for Clinical Dentistry Norway With experience in cell biology, histology and biomaterials, I am used to handling a wide variety of samples for microscopy. After my PhD in cell signaling at the University of Birmingham, UK, I had two post-doc positions using live single cell imaging at the University of Liverpool, then moved to the University of Oslo (UiO) NorMIC imaging platform at the Institute of Biosciences. I currently work at the Institute of Clinical Dentistry, UiO, developing imaging strategies for tissue engineering. My interests also include optimal approaches for microscopy training and I am a member of QUAREP-LiMi working group 8 – Education, training and outreach. Read More Dr Luciana Gallo – Global Partner Universidad de Buenos Aires Argentina I am a Researcher and Project Leader at University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. I have experience in basic cell biology research, with a strong use of confocal microscopy applied to visualize subcellular processes. My recent projects focus on the regulation of the secretory pathway in health and neurodegenerative diseases using cellular models. I teach Genetics and Fundamentals of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Buenos Aires and Institute of Technology of Buenos Aires. I am excited to collaborate in the PiTCH Program, and believe that together we can inspire the future generations to explore the microscopic world. Read More Dr Samira Benadda – Global Partner Institute of Biology of Ecole Normale Superieur of Paris France I am Dr Samira Benadda, an imaging scientist. I obtained my PhD in immunology at the University Paris Cité, France. My doctoral project focused on the trafficking of the Fc receptor to understand new therapeutic targets in the field of monoclonal antibodies. I currently manage the core imaging facility at the Institute of Biology of the Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS) in Paris. I also support researchers in the implementation and optimization of advanced light microscopy techniques and actively collaborate on multidisciplinary research projects. My expertise span core facility management, users training, and the development of imaging workflows, with a strong commitment to capacity building and the dissemination of bioimaging expertise, particularly in Africa. Read More Dr Mariana De Niz – Global Partner Northwestern University, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Center for Advanced Microscopy United States of America My name is Mariana De Niz. I was born in Mexico City, where my interest in microscopy and infectious diseases first arose. I studied my undergraduate and postgraduate studies and postdoctoral work in institutions across Europe. With a great interest in parasites and their interactions with the host vasculature, imaging at all scales has been essential to my research. Currently, I am the Nikon Center Manager at the Center for Advanced Microscopy at Northwestern University, where my role is multifaceted and includes research, teaching, and a great involvement in international efforts to ensure global access to microscopy infrastructure and expertise. Read More Dr Nana-Jane Chipampe-Baker – Global Partner Wellcome Sanger Institute Institute of Biomedical Sciences United Kingdom I am a Histopathology and Imaging Specialist, Chartered Scientist, and Fellow of the Institute of Biomedical Sciences. I apply Histopathology, Spatial Genomics, and immuno-oncology multiplex microscopy to human and non-human tissues. My expertise include tissue examination, preparation, staining, and high-resolution imaging to investigate cellular and molecular features. During my postdoctoral work, I led the installation, optimisation, and validation of the RareCyte Orion multiplex immunofluorescence microscope. In my current role, I provide specialist technical leadership in advanced light, fluorescence, confocal, and multiplex imaging, deliver microscopy training, and motivated by emerging AI-driven Histopathological analysis tools. Read More Phase 2 Phase 2: Workshop implementation in Africa Phase 2 supports the delivery of in-person microscopy workshops hosted at African partner institutions. Teaching pairs selected for this phase will implement the workshop concepts developed during the mentorship, sharing skills and knowledge with local research and training communities. Phase 2 is competitive and builds directly on the collaborative work completed during Phase 1. More details to follow on Phase2. Program timeline highlights Phase 1 mentorship period: January–December 2026 Workshop implementation (Phase 2): By October 2027 The PiTCH Fellowship Program is generously supported by Tokai Hit Co., Ltd . AMI is grateful to its co-partners for their support of microscopy capacity development in Africa.

Imaging Africa & AMI Together with the Advanced Imaging Center at HHMI Janelia , AMI hosts the annual Imaging Africa workshop. Imaging Africa is a cost-free advanced microscopy workshop and is open to any life scientist in Africa. Visit the Imaging Africa website by clicking the logo below for more information.

AMI TRAINING PROGRAMS Sharing and growing microscopy knowledge AMI training programmes provide opportunities for any life science researcher in Africa to gain, develop, and teach optical microscopy. Currently, AMI is affiliated with three programs: Partners in Teaching Leveraging global expertise and and resources to train Imaging Africa A free advanced microscopy workshop open to any life scientist in Africa Microscopy Matters Educational insights into microscopy topics by researchers in Africa

Contact an AMI Training Program Reach out to AMI on Twitter: For enquiries, please email us:

Partners in Teaching (PiTCH) Fellowship - CALL 01 Call overview Applications for Phase 1 are NOW Closed Quick navigation: [ Phase 1 ] [ Phase 2 ] Call 01 of the PiTCH Fellowship Program is a global opportunity focused on skills development and knowledge exchange for scientists and researchers in microscopy and microscopy related disciplines. It aims to connect researchers from different parts of the world to share their expertise and gain mentorship in developing and organising impactful microscopy workshops in Africa. The program is designed as a tripartite model that connects an African researcher with a global researcher, both of whom will be mentored by a global microscopy expert. Together, this trio will collaborate to deliver a workshop at the African researcher’s home institution. At the core of the PiTCH Fellowship Program is a mentorship group consisting of three key members: the African partner , the global partner , and the mentor . African partner : Researchers in Africa aiming to apply microscopy in their research and strengthen local capacity through teaching and workshops. Global partner : Early-career researchers from anywhere in the world with microscopy experience, seeking teaching and workshop experience. Mentor : A global microscopy training and education expert who will guide and support the teaching pair throughout the program. In addition to the primary goal of developing and planning a microscopy workshop in Africa, the teaching pair will benefit from peer support, bilateral transfer of knowledge and skills, and the establishment of long-term relationships. This collaboration ultimately contributes to the development of sustainable microscopy communities and capacity building in Africa. The PiTCH Fellowship Program will be implemented in two phases: Phase 1 and Phase 2. Phase 1: Train-the-Trainer Mentorship Program The Africa Microscopy Initiative (AMI) will select research scientists in Africa who are interested in pursuing microscopy-related research and developing local microscopy communities. These scientists will be paired with selected early-career global microscopy scientists to form "teaching pairs ." The pairs will receive up to a year of structured, online mentorship and training in organizing and delivering microscopy workshops tailored to the African context. This mentorship will be conducted remotely, allowing fellows to participate from their current locations. The program is designed to be flexible, enabling fellows to continue with their primary work and responsibilities while engaging in the training. Four teaching pairs will be selected (eight total fellows), and the key content covered during the mentorship will include: Workshop curriculum and concept development Workshop planning and organizational skills Knowledge sharing between partners Workshop sponsors and strategic partners Throughout the mentorship, each teaching pair will progressively develop their workshop plan. This will culminate in a completed workshop proposal and strategy, which can be used to secure funding from various sources, including Phase 2 of the PiTCH Fellowship Program. By the end of Phase 1, all pairings should be adequately prepared to pursue a workshop in Africa. Applications for Phase 1 are NOW CLOSED : [ Read more and apply HERE! ] Phase 2: Potential workshop execution in Africa Participants who successfully complete Phase 1 may have the opportunity to advance, through a selection process, to Phase 2 . In this next stage, selected fellows will apply the knowledge and skills gained in Phase 1 to co-deliver an in-person microscopy workshop at the African partner’s home institution. More details will be communicated! Phase 2 Phase 1

Phase 1: PiTCH train-the-trainer mentorship program CALL FOR APPLICATIONS 2025 - NOW CLOSED! Quick navigation: [ Information session ] [ Application information ] Applications are now open for Phase 1 of the PiTCH Fellowship Program . This competitive, train-the-trainer mentorship initiative is designed to strengthen microscopy capacity through collaboration, peer learning, bilateral skills exchange, and guided mentorship. Read more about this here . A tripartite mentorship model The program will pair one African and one global partner for up to 12 months of remote mentorship by international microscopy experts. African partner : Researchers in Africa aiming to apply microscopy in their research and strengthen local capacity through teaching and workshops. Global partner : Early-career researchers from anywhere in the world with microscopy experience, seeking teaching and workshop experience. Mentor : A global expert in microscopy education who provides structured guidance throughout the fellowship. Phase 1: Remote mentorship (2025–2026) During Phase 1, four teaching pairs (eight fellows in total) will engage in a remote mentorship program lasting up to 12 months. This flexible format enables participants to contribute meaningfully while balancing their existing research and professional responsibilities. Mentorship framework overview Duration : Up to 12 months (remote). Participants : 4 African Partners + 4 Global Partners = 4 teaching pairs. Mentorship team : Each pair will be supported by an experienced international microscopy mentor. Core activities : Monthly mentorship sessions (or as needed), collaborative planning, peer learning, and structured feedback. Focus areas : Technical skills, curriculum design, co-teaching strategies, adaptation to local context, planning, logistics, communication, and budgeting. Expected outcome : Enhanced skills and a completed, fundable microscopy workshop concept note tailored to the African research environment. Upon completing Phase 1 , teaching pairs may be invited to apply for Phase 2 , where they will co-deliver their workshop (designed in Phase 1) at the African Partner’s institution. This is subject to the availability of resources and proposal strength. Teaching pairs may also use their developed concepts notes to apply for third party funding to support the implementation of their workshops. Eligibility We welcome applications from motivated applicants who are: Active in microscopy, life sciences, bioimaging, or related fields. Committed to mentorship, capacity building, and collaborative training. Able to participate in up to 12 months of remote mentorship. Endorsed by a referee or institutional representative. Information Session AMI hosted an online information session for prospective PiTCH applicants. The session provided information on the application process as well as the review and selection process, which will be helpful for prospective applicants. View the webinar recording here: [ Link ] PiTCH overview: 10:00 What to expect for Phase 1: 23:15 Q&A session: 31:57 How to apply? Complete all relevant sections of the online application form below. Ensure that you select the correct application form. It is strongly recommended to review the Application Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) before commencing with the application form. Application form and guidelines: African partner: [ Application Form ] | [ Guidelines (PDF) ] | [ FAQs (PDF) ] Global partner: [ Application Form ] | [ Guidelines (PDF) ] | [ FAQs (PDF) ] Application deadline: 20 September 2025 at 15:00 UTC Notification of outcomes: by 30 November 2025 NB: All self-reported experience, skills, and achievements must be accurate and verifiable. Misleading claims will result in disqualification. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews. PiTCH application Information session

Microscopy Matters & AMI About this Webinar Series Microscopy Matters is a Webinar Series discussing the basics of microscopy, quantitative imaging, and image analysis. The videos are short 15-20 min presentations mostly by African Microscopists. Microscopy Matters is meant to spread the awareness for microscopy by providing basic knowledge about all things microscopy and by scientist talking about their microscopy success stories. How does it work? Microscopy matters is by scientists for scientists. Our series discusses a wide range of microscopy related topics and will grow over time. Please reach out to us if you would like to learn more about a specific topic or if you are interested in presenting. New videos will be posted regularly on this website and on our youtube channel . Microscopy Matters is organized by Anja Schmidt, Advanced Imaging Center, HHMI/Janelia. Microscopy Matters Webinars About the Webinar Fluorescence Microscopy helps to visualize specific proteins and other structures within the cells. In this webinar, we discuss the basics of fluorescence and the different fluorescence labeling techniques. About the Speaker Seth Domfeh (PhD) is a Lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. He is interested in the triggers of hepatitis B virus-mediated liver cancer and malaria transmission research. Keywords: fluorescence, sample preparation, labeling About the Webinar In this webinar, we talk about the differences between Widefield and Confocal Microscopy . We briefly explain both methods and discuss pros and cons of both techniques and give some guidance to choose the right one. About the Speaker Viantha Naidoo (PhD) is an imaging specialist at the AMI Imaging Center, housed in the Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. She supports visiting researchers in designing their imaging experiments and provides hands-on expertise in sample preparation and microscopy. Keywords: microscopy techniques, widefield, confocal, optics About the Webinar Resolution is a crucial factor in light microscopy. In this webinar we talk about some theoretical background about the achievable resolution and give some practical advice on how to optimize the resolution on a microscope, show some examples and talk about best practices. About the Speaker Lize Engelbrecht (MSc) is the Unit Manager of the Central Analytical Facilities Fluorescence Microscopy Unit at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. The unit is a multi-user facility housing a confocal and super-resolution microscope and a cell sorter. Keywords: resolution, optics

Partners in Teaching AMI Program The Partners in Teaching (PiTCH) program is designed to leverage global expertise and resources to build African capacity in developing and running microscopy training programs. The PiTCH Fellowship Program aims to pair early career imaging scientists from Africa who seek workshop organisation and teaching experience with an aspiring lecturer or research counterpart from other continents. Upon selection, these pairs are mentored by experienced international imaging scientists to develop and host a week-long microscopy training course at the affiliated African institute. The first call for the AMI PiTCH Fellowship Program is now CLOSED.