Instruct-Hamburg

DESY

High-throughput Macromolecular Crystallography beamline P11, PETRA III.

DESY combines cutting-edge table-top light sources and large-scale facilities. PETRA III is one of the world’s most brilliant storage-ring-based X-ray sources, with future upgrade to PETRA IV planned and offers scientists outstanding opportunities for experiments with X-rays of exceptionally high brilliance. PETRA III currently provides 25 undulator beamlines with almost 60 instruments. The high-throughput Macromolecular Crystallography beamline P11 provides high flux densities and highly automated experimental setups for the investigation of biological macromolecules. With maximum speed of 2 min per sample, P11 is an exceptionally efficient instrument.

European XFEL

European XFEL, part of Instruct-DE, joined Instruct-ERIC in 2025. The Bio Laboratory at European XFEL began operation in summer 2016 and has since supported users in sample preparation and characterization for XFEL beamtimes. The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art instruments covering the full workflow, from cell culture to sample delivery into the x-ray beam.

With extensive experience in serial crystallography sample preparation, we assist researchers in preparing and optimizing microcrystals for their experiments. A distinctive aspect of serial crystallography is the requirement for continuous sample delivery, as a fresh sample must be supplied for each X-ray pulse (“diffraction before destruction”). Once microcrystals are prepared, we help determine the most suitable delivery method, such as liquid jets, high-viscosity extruders, or fixed targets, by performing injection tests and fluidic property measurements.

For researchers new to serial crystallography, the facility provides consultation and guidance throughout the entire process, including assistance with the preparation of beamtime proposals. To facilitate an efficient and well-coordinated application process, researchers are advised to contact facility staff in advance.

Serial Crystallography Sample Preparation

We provide comprehensive support for the preparation of samples used in serial crystallography experiments. Our expertise covers the entire process from microcrystal growth and optimization, ensuring that samples meet the specific requirements for high-quality serial crystallography experiments.

Users have access to fully equipped laboratory facilities for protein microcrystallization. Facility staff assists researchers in developing and refining crystallization conditions, with particular emphasis on generating stable and uniform microcrystals suitable for serial data collection.

We offer guidance in evaluating crystal quality through microscopic inspection and diffraction testing, and in optimizing parameters such as crystal size distribution and concentration. For users new to the field, tailored consultation and training can be provided to ensure successful sample preparation workflows for XFEL beamtime.

This service is available through both remote and on-site access.

Sample Characterization for Serial Crystallography

This service is to ensure that crystal quality and sample properties are well understood prior to beamtime, thereby improving data collection efficiency and overall experimental success.

Our laboratory is equipped with advanced instruments for comprehensive sample assessment, including Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) for evaluating particle size distribution, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) for direct visualization of microcrystals and, where feasible, diffraction tests, and Second-Order Nonlinear Imaging of Chiral Crystals (SONICC) for detecting protein crystals in complex mixtures. These techniques enable the detailed analysis of crystal morphology, size, homogeneity, and diffraction potential.

This service can be accessed through both remote and on-site modes, depending on the user’s needs and the nature of the characterization tasks.

Sample Delivery Test for Serial Crystallography

Sample delivery plays a crucial role in achieving successful data collection at XFELs. This service focuses on identifying and optimizing suitable delivery techniques for each sample type.

Our staff will perform sample delivery tests of users' samples to evaluate compatibility with various systems, including liquid jets, droplet generators, high-viscosity extruders, and fixed-target setups. During these tests, parameters such as flow stability, sample consumption, and jet behaviour are assessed to determine optimal experimental conditions. Facility staff offers these tests, ensuring that users can achieve reproducible and reliable sample delivery performance.

European XFEL Beamtime proposal writing

In addition to all services, the facility provides consultation and support for beamtime proposal writing, assisting users in defining experimental strategies, describing sample delivery approaches, and articulating technical feasibility. Our staff can help researchers refine their proposal sections related to sample preparation and delivery, improving the overall clarity and competitiveness of submissions.

This service is available through both remote and on-site access, depending on users’ needs and the nature of the planned experiments.

University of Hamburg/CSSB

The Cryo-EM Facility at CSSB Hamburg, operated by the University of Hamburg, supports a broad spectrum of structural and cell biology projects focused on host-pathogen interactions, from sample preparation to high-resolution structure determination. Established in 2018, the facility provides access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM instrumentation, including automated workflows for single particle data analysis, electron cryo-tomography, lamella preparation, and correlative imaging. 

From 2026, the facility joined the Instruct-DE network, expanding cryo-EM access for European researchers. The facility is offering the following workflows: 

• Sample preparation and Cryo-grid screening on the Arctica for samples prepared on Quantifoil grids (e.g. single particle analysis targets, exosomes, vesicles), including 2D classification for initial quality assessment.  
• High-end single particle data collection on the Titan Krios with cryoSPARC Live processing for pre-screened grids on the Titan Krios. 
• Electron cryo-tomography on pre-screened samples such as large complexes, exosomes, and viruses.  

Tailored support is provided for Instruct users, including project feasibility assessments, proposal preparation, and scheduling support. 

For safety and feasibility reasons, initially only biosafety level 1 samples can be accepted.

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