The SBGrid CryoET ChallengeBank is a growing collection of carefully curated cryo-electron tomography datasets designed for hands-on learning. Each dataset is paired with a complete processing pipeline and step-by-step instructions, giving learners the opportunity to work through real cryoET challenges using modern data-processing approaches.

Users can practice with datasets representing different specimens, processing goals, and analytical techniques. These workflows incorporate software tools from the SBGrid software collection, including many free and open-source applications, helping users build practical skills in a reproducible environment.

ChallengeBank datasets are sourced from publicly available repositories, including EMPIAR, or generously contributed by research groups specifically for training and education. As this resource grows, we aim to expand the collection to include a broader range of specimens and biological questions.

For new tomographers, educators, and researchers exploring unfamiliar workflows, the CryoET ChallengeBank provides a structured starting point for developing confidence with complex cryoET data.

Explore the datasets. Follow the workflows. Build your cryoET processing skills.

Designed for Learning and Training

The SBGrid CryoET ChallengeBank is built around a learning-by-doing philosophy. We provide full instructions for each dataset. The more datasets you process, the better you will understand how complex cryoET tools work.

Each challenge allows users to:

• Follow a guided processing workflow
• Understand how tools interact across pipelines
• Explore parameter choices and their downstream effects
• Build confidence working with real cryoET data

The more data you process, the more familiar with different tools and pipelines you'll become.

Get Started

1. Choose a Challenge

Browse the available datasets and select a biological specimen or processing workflow that interests you.

2. Follow the Workflow

Download the dataset and work through the accompanying documentation. Each challenge includes a complete processing pipeline, and downloadable scripts are available through the Processing Bundle button. Selected challenges also include video tutorials.

3. Reconstruct, Analyze, Experiment

Complete the workflow, examine your results, and then try something new. In cryoET, there is rarely only one way to approach a dataset.

The SBGrid CryoET ChallengeBank is an ongoing project. If you would like to donate a dataset to the ChallengeBank which you think might be suitable for tutorial development, please let us know.