The Emory University Robert P. Apkarian Integrated Electron Microscopy Core (RPAIEMC) has acquired a 200kV field emission gun transmission electron microscope (FEG-TEM) with this award from the NSF Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program. Over 100 Emory University research groups from 26 departments utilize the RPAIEMC for the structural characterization of biological, chemical, and materials science research samples. The instrument provides Emory researchers with the ability to explore specimens at much higher resolutions than previously possible. The microscope will have a wider pole-piece to support cryo-electron microscopy and tomography applications, a Zernike phase plate for enhanced phase contrast of cryo-specimens, an in-column energy filter for energy-filtered imaging and energy loss spectroscopy of biological and materials science specimens, a 4kx4k high-resolution CCD camera, and several specimen holders suitable for cryo-, biological and materials science applications. This instrument will be used, under cryo-conditions, to examine the structure of isolated macromolecules, viruses, and whole cells in order to explore basic mechanisms of macromolecular assembly, viral packaging and infection, and bacterial development. The new, state-of-the-art electron microscope, housed within the RPAIEMC of Emory University, will provide a research technology and environment in which cross-disciplinary collaborations will be established and developed between researchers investigating biological, chemical, and materials systems. The new FEG-TEM will enhance our ability to attract and educate students, postdoctoral fellows, young and senior investigators working in a wide-range of research fields. Results from studies conducted with the new microscope will be disseminated through student and faculty presentations at regional and national meetings, and in peer-reviewed journal publications.
