For research projects requiring electron microscopy, the FEMR provides consultation and guidance on experimental design, sample preparation, imaging, and data analysis. The first step is to submit a Project Form. Please describe the research objectives clearly so that the appropriate staff members can participate in the assessment. To arrange an Assessment Interview, contact S. Kelly Sears.
During the Assessment Interview, scientific and technical staff will review the project objectives and technical requirements to identify suitable instruments, methodologies, and workflows. Students, postdoctoral fellows, and research assistants/associates are required to attend the interview. Attendance by the supervisor is strongly recommended to ensure an efficient and comprehensive project evaluation.
Project costs are discussed during the interview, and the facility manager will provide a cost estimate following the consultation.
After the interview, a training schedule will be established if the researcher will carry out the work independently. If the project requires technical support or will be conducted by FEMR staff, it will be added to the designated staff member鈥檚 project queue. Projects are typically scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Requests for priority scheduling (e.g., manuscript revision deadlines or conference submissions) will be considered and approved when reasonable justification is provided. Rush requests are subject to additional fees.
Items to bring to the Assessment Interview
Please be prepared to discuss your research goals and experimental plan. Bring the following materials:
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Written confirmation of funding
A letter from your supervisor confirming agreement to cover project fees. An email sent to Stephen Kelly Sears is also acceptable. -
Project summary and specific aims
A concise description of the research objectives and experimental scope. -
Risk assessment
A one-page document describing any hazardous or biohazardous materials involved (e.g., infectious agents, radioactive substances, or highly toxic materials) and associated risks.- Only Containment Level 1 (CL1) or Biosafety Level 1 (BSL1) samples are routinely accepted. Potentially infectious or toxic materials cannot be accommodated. All biological samples must be fully fixed before submission to the FEMR.
- In exceptional cases, Containment Level 2 (CL2) or Biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) samples may be processed for cryo-electron microscopy. In such cases, a copy of the approved 涩里番 Application to Use Biohazardous Materials must be submitted.
- Hazardous materials and specimens鈥攊ncluding magnetic powders and wet, organic, or volatile substances鈥攎ust not be introduced into sample chambers or electron microscope columns without prior consultation with FEMR staff.
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Relevant publications
Key papers related to the proposed research. -
Preliminary data or results
Any initial work or pilot experiments conducted by the researcher.
EM Tool Kits
The FEMR provides tools and supplies for common use.聽 Regular facility users are advised to stock and maintain their tool kits and consumables (e.g., Autogrid tweezers for Vitrobot, grids, cryo grids boxes, tweezers, etc.).