The first multidisciplinary Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) laboratory for undergraduate students using research-grade instrumentation is being created in this project using state-of-the-art instrumentation for Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) and Atom Force Microscopy (AFM). The laboratory is designed to bring together students from different disciplines of science and engineering and different ethnic backgrounds and to help prepare them for the imminent revolution in nano-science, engineering, and technology. The laboratory is equipped with research-grade instruments capable of operating in the STM and AFM modes at nanoscale resolution under ambient, in vitro, and in situ electrochemical conditions. The multidisciplinary laboratory includes (1) sample and probe preparation equipment, (2) six SPM workstations, (3) post-acquisition data-processing centers, and (4) testing equipment. The project involves expert faculty and researchers from the departments of chemistry/biochemistry, physics/astronomy, geology, botany, zoology, microbiology, chemical/bio/materials engineering, and electrical engineering. The laboratory complements many undergraduate courses and laboratories in the above disciplines, and provides highly qualified students for undergraduate research projects.
