We request funds to replace our aging scanning electron microscope (SEM) facility with new instrumentation that has the capabilities to meet the evolving research and educational requirements at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). The high magnification, great detail, depth of field, and analytical capabilities inherent to scanning electron microscopy are crucial to the investigation of systematics, mineralogy, and other research foci at the AMNH. The current SEM/EDS system, a Zeiss DSM 950 and Link AN10000, is in continuous use by a varied population of researchers. It was an innovative digital design at the time, but is now worn, outdated, and not upgradeable. This system does not meet research and educational requirements including: 1) imaging uncoated biological specimens, 2) high magnification imaging in both secondary and backscattered electron modes, 3) production and storage of high resolution digital image files, 4) separation of light elements, 5) ease of operation for a diverse user population, 6) industry-standard computing platforms that can be upgraded and have third party application support, 7) network and Internet operation for collaboration and education, and 8) publication quality printing. A new isolation system will suppress of vibrations at magnifications above 20,000x. Secondary electron imaging of uncoated biological specimens, particularly taxonomic types, is important in a museum setting because these specimens are unique and cannot be coated. Backscattered imaging at high magnification and high accelerating voltage operation are critical for mineralogical research. These diverse requirements can now be met by field emission FE) instruments. The ability to greatly increase magnification (FE scopes are rated to 600,00'0~ will extend the frontiers of scientific research at the AMNH. FE instruments have chamber sizes adequate for large specimens and are easy to operate. Current SEM and EDS systems are now migrating to standa rd computing platforms that are easy to use, produce high-resolution digital images, and operate with other instruments over networks and the Internet. The new facility will provide state-of-the-art instrumentation that will meet both new and longstanding research and educational requirements for a very large user population associated with some of the most important natural history collections in the world (in excess of 37 million specimens). The AMNH has committed, and will continue to commit, staff and resources to the operation of the SEM facility. The SEM will be available to all affiliated personnel who undertake research, research training, or education. 3
