9451480 Glaunsinger The first multidisciplinary scanning probe microscopy (SPM) laboratory for undergraduate students using research-grade instrumentation will be created in this project. The primary goal of this initiative is to create a unique SPM undergraduate laboratory using affordable, state-of-the-art instrumentation for scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The proposed laboratory is designed to serve as a magnet to bring together students from different disciplines and ethnic backgrounds to help prepare them for the imminent revolution in nano-science, engineering and technology. The proposed laboratory will be built around research-grade instruments that are capable of operating in both STM and AFM modes at nanoscale resolution under ambient conditions, in vitro and in situ under electrochemical control. The multidisciplinary SPM laboratory will be completely equipped with (i) sample and probe preparation equipment, (ii) four SPM workstations, (iii) post-acquisition data processing equipment, and (iv) testing equipment. This project will involve expert faculty from the Department of Chemistry/Biochemistry, Physics/Astronomy, Geology, Biology, Chemical/Bio/Materials Engineering and Electrical Engineering. The proposed laboratory will serve a new multidisciplinary SPM laboratory course, complement many of the existing undergraduate courses and laboratories in the above disciplines, provide highly qualified students for undergraduate research projects, and strengthen special programs such as the federally funded Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Program in Materials Synthesis and Processing and the Coalition to Increase Minority Degrees. The proposed multidisciplinary SPM laboratory will have a positive impact on the quality of science and engineering education at the university, local, regional and national levels.
