The Chemistry Department at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee (UWM) will acquire a high resolution scanning electron microscope (SEM) with this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program. This instrument will be used in the high resolution imaging of cell surfaces and nanoparticle conjugates, investigating novel surfaces and nanostructures, the study of composites & colloids, the development of advanced nano-electronic and spintronic materials and in nanoprobe fabrication & characterization.
High resolution scanning electron microscopy is a critical characterization tool in many research areas (chemistry, physics, materials, engineering, biology, etc.). SEM uses a focused electron beam to scan the surface of a sample. This provides images and structures on a nanometer scale. In materials science, high resolution compositional imaging is crucially important for the development of nanomaterials with novel functionality. In the biological area, this capability allows for the localization of nanoparticles attached to cell surfaces for the identification of receptors and other proteins, answering questions about the distribution of functional sites on the surface of cells. Electron microscopy technology will be used in graduate student research and instruction. The ease of operation of the new SEM will make it feasible for many courses to include an electron microscopy experience. The remote operation capabilities will be used to strengthen the existing links between UWM and the Milwaukee Public School system by developing high-level inquiry based experiments with UWM pre-service teachers.
