This project provides an Hitachi Model H-300 Transmission Electron Microscope with a Scanning attachment and the ancillary preparative equipment needed to install a new electron microscopy facility in space provided through new construction. The curricular improvements that result have been based on an extensive review of facilities, equipment and curriculum that firmly established the need for an electron microscope to make possible more sophisticated student work in both introductory and advanced courses -- including Biology and Human Values, Concepts of Biology, Plant Morphology, Anatomy of Vascular Plants, Parasitology, Physiology, Introduction to Research, and Independent Research Topics. The instrument's contribution to enhancing options for independent projects and required student research is of special significance. The departmental faculty is unusual in that five of its eight full-time members have had previous experience working with electron microscopy.
