Microscopy Courses

The centerpiece of the in-depth research training in EM techniques offered at the MTSU Interdisciplinary Microanalysis and Imaging Center is the trio of laboratory courses in SEM, TEM and EDX that are offered every year to undergraduate and graduate students. Each course teaches comprehensive sample preparation using these techniques, instrument theory, and hands-on training.

Scanning Electron Microscopy Techniques Laboratory (BIOL 4290/6290)

Beginning Fall ’06. The primary route to in-depth learning of SEM, this four credit laboratory course consists of one-third each of sample preparation, data collection (including remote operation, and analysis and theory. Students collect and prepare samples utilizing a full range of techniques, and are responsible for a portfolio of high quality images. Undergraduate and graduate students from the Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Physics, Art, Photography and Criminal Justice departments have taken the course.

Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (BIOL 4360/5360)

Beginning Spring ’07. In this one-credit course requiring the SEM course a prerequisite, students learn EDX theory, sample preparation, perform quantitative analyses, and do elemental mapping of samples from biological and industrial sources.

Practical training in Microanalysis Techniques (IMIC 4820/5820)

Beginning Spring ’07. In this one-credit course requiring the SEM course a prerequisite, students learn EDX theory, sample preparation, perform quantitative analyses, and do elemental mapping of samples from biological and industrial sources.

Transmission Electron Microscopy Techniques Laboratory (BIOL 4270/6410)

Beginning Spring ’07. This four credit laboratory course consists of one-half sample preparation, and a quarter each of data collection (including remote operation, and analysis and theory. Students collect and prepare samples utilizing a full range of techniques, and are responsible for a portfolio of high quality images.

Check for changes in and expansion of existing microscopy offerings.
Applications in other courses TBA.

Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Training

Research training in ICP-MS techniques offered at the MTSU Interdisciplinary Microanalysis and Imaging Center, courtesy of an NSF-CCLI grant, is incorporated into ETIS 4220 and GEOL1030, 3000, 4000,4090,4140, 4170 courses offered every year to undergraduate and a few graduate students. Each course involves several sample preparations, instrument theory, and hands-on training.

Confocal Microscopy Training

Not available until Fall ’07. Research training in confocal techniques offered at the MTSU Interdisciplinary Microanalysis and Imaging Center, courtesy of the MTSU Research Enhancement Program and awarded to the Integrative Life Sciences faculty, is incorporated into BIOL courses offered every year to undergraduate and graduate students. Each course has at least one laboratory experiment requiring instruction in sample preparation, instrument theory, and hands-on training.