The acquisition of a vacuum evaporator, an ultra-microtome, and a glass knife maker under this project will enhance the opportunities for undergraduates to conduct laboratory research using the University's transmission electron microscope. Students from the Departments of Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Geology, and the fiber-optics and pre- engineering options will have the opportunity to participate in projects using the electron microscope. Further, the electron microscope projects will link together all levels of interdisciplinary research activities at the University. It is expected that this approach will enhance the research skills of the undergraduates; increase activity and cohesion among all student levels across departments and disciplines; and increase undergraduate participation at scientific meetings and in the preparation of manuscripts submitted for publication. The project will also combine existing senior research courses, as well as a planned new course in Electron Microscopy, into a continuous learning process spanning the undergraduate years.
