FUTURE TECH
New microscope technology energizes undergraduate research
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ZEISS has provided the instructional physical chemistry labs at the College of Chemistry with a state-of-the-art scanning electron microscope (SEM), EVO LS 15, that allows our students to take images of nanoscale matter down to 3 nm spatial resolution. In doing so, ZEISS is supporting our educational and research mission to train undergraduates with modern technology relevant to chemistry and nanoscience such that they are optimally prepared for the job market after their studies at UC Berkeley. This support of our research-near instruction approach allows us to enable lab experiments for students who are interested in conducting research at the vibrant interface of chemistry, materials science, and nanoscience. It is important for the College to use modern technology to train our students and provide them with the opportunity to experience top-of-the-line instrumentation they would find, for example, if they later start their professional careers in the semiconductor industry. There are two ways the instrument is implemented in our instructional and research activities. First, the instrument is integrated into our upper division physical chemistry lab courses where students learn about the technology and applications, with the opportunity to perform hands-on quantitative material analysis. Second, both undergraduate and graduate students can perform their independent and group
College of Chemistry, UC Berkeley
COURTESY NADIA BERNDT
BY MICHAEL ZUERCH Assistant Professor of Chemistry
