Electron Microscopy

Zeiss Supra 40V Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

Based on Zeiss' GEMINI field emission SEM column, the Zeiss Supra 40V Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) provides ultra high resolution at low kV. Additionally, the variable presser chamber allows for imaging of non-conductive samples. The large chamber and user friendly software make this a versatile easy to use instrument. Data retrieval on CD or USB.

Cryo-SEM is also available but requires special training and instrument prep.

For inquiries about SEM or cryo-SEM, please contact Michelle Mikesh.

Instrument Access: Assisted use and training for individual use are available.  To schedule assisted use or training, please email Michelle Mikesh.

Fees: trained user: $58/hour; assisted use: $128/hour

Instruments available to assist with SEM Prep:

Tousimis Samdri 790 CPD is available for critical point drying.  Critical point drying is still the standard by which other structure preservation techniques are measured. Sample holders available for bulk or large specimens, TEM grids, or coverslips.

Cressington 208 Benchtop Sputter Coater can provide ultra-thin (nm scale) grain free coatings for high resolution SEM applications. The attached thickness monitor has a resolution on 0.1 nm, for reproducible coatings. We keep a stock of metal targets including Au/Pd, Pt/Pd, Cr, and Ir.

Bal-Tec MED 20 High Vacuum Coater is a quick turbo-pumped unit with accessory for rotary and directional electron beam evaporation. Useful for low-angle high-resolution tungsten shadowing.

Instrument Access: Training for individual use is available. To schedule training, please email Michelle Mikesh.

Fees:

• Critical Point Dryer: $18/run
• Sputter coater: $7/run + the costs of metal (please inquire regarding metal fees)
• Users are required to purchase their own consumables.

FEI Tecnai Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)

The FEI Tecnai Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) is a 20-120kV instrument that we typically operate at 80kV for improved contrast of biological specimens.  The BioTwin lens configuration enhances specimen contrast at the medium magnification used with resin-embedded tissue while permitting sub-nanometer resolution with the right specimen and instrument configuration. The Tecnai is fitted with a top mount AMT Advantage HR 1kX1k digital camera which is sensitive at low illumination and has FFT assistance for easier focusing and astigmatism compensation. The microscope is reliable and easy to use. With its convenient embedded automation, the Tecnai Spirit TEM automatically performs many routine operating procedures. It can automatically align and tune the instrument and offers automated image capture for e-tomography and photomontage.  Images can be retrieved on CD, 250Mb PC Zips, or USB.

Cryo-TEM is available, but requires special training and instrument prep.

For inquiries about the TEM or cryo-TEM, please contact Michelle Mikesh.

Instrument Access: Assisted use and training for individual use are available. To schedule assisted use or training, please email Michelle Mikesh.

Fees: trained user: $72/hour; assisted use: $142/hour

Instruments available to assist with TEM Prep:

• Pelco BioWave (Microwave Prep)
• Emitech Glow Discharge
• Bal-Tec MED 20 High Vacuum Coater

This quick turbo-pumped unit with accessory for rotary and directional electron beam evaporation. Useful for low-angle high-resolution tungsten shadowing.

Instrument Access: Training for individuals is available. To schedule training, please email Michelle Mikesh.

Fees:

• Embedding by staff: $70/hour plus materials and incidentals. Enquire in advance.
• Microwave prep station & Glow Discharge do not have a user fee but do require training.
• Users are required to purchase their own consumables.