Through this project, Luther College will procure a transmission electron microscope (TEM) so that its Biology Department can expand course offerings to include a course in the biological applications of electron microscopy. Students in Cell Biology and Molecular Biology courses will benefit from a more balanced presentation of structure and function. The additional emphasis on cell structure will result in an improved frame of reference upon which to comprehend cell function. Histology students will gain a better understanding of cell fine structure. This project will upgrade graduate school preparation for biology majors and produce improved technical employment possibilities for graduating seniors. The skill of electron microscopy is a highly sought-after expertise in research and industry. The TEM will be used to increase awareness of cellular biology at the introductory level. Students in General Biology will receive a closely supervised first-hand experience of taking electron micrographs which will serve as lab material for the study of cell fine structure. The Chemistry Instrumentation course also will include the electron microscope among the instruments studied, and time on the electron microscope will be made available for student research in geology. This instrument thus will benefit the curricula of three of Luther College's science departments.
