Electron Microscopy
The electron microscopy division of the CCI provides advanced expertise from sample preparation to image analysis, for a large variety of biological specimens ranging from macromolecules to cells and tissues.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) allows visualisation of very fine details on the sample surface using a focused beam of electrons.
The most common SEM mode is detection of secondary electrons, ie. electrons emitted from the sample atoms upon excitation by the electron beam. By scanning the sample and collecting the secondary electrons at different sample points using a special detector a raster image displaying the topography of the surface is created.
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a technique in which a beam of electrons is transmitted through an ultra-thin specimen slice (section), interacting with the specimen as it passes through it. Sample atoms with higher atomic number as well as thicker parts of the sample scatter beam electrons preventing them from passing through. The beam electrons which pass through the sample are imaged on a fluorescent screen or a camera sensor (CCD or CMOS).
TEMs are capable of imaging at sub-nanometer resolution, owing to the small de Broglie wavelength of electrons. Routine TEM imaging of biological materials allows to distinguish large molecule complexes but in TEM systems adapted for material sciences it is possible to see individual atoms.
At the CCI we give courses in light and electron microscopy as well as image analysis. However, to get access to our equipment you need to get an individual training at the particular microscope or sample preparation equipment. These trainings are set up after a face-to-face project meeting.
The individual introductory microscope training usually consists of two sessions, one half day of instruction (3 hours) with a training specimen and one half day with the user’s own specimen, but can be shorter or extended depending on the microscope technique and the needs and experience of the user.
Please, contact the staff for more information about prices and to schedule the training sessions.