Electron Microscopy: Introduction to Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) AND SEM Sample Preparation
Duration 0.5 days
Team Researcher Academy







This face to face course is run by the Researcher Academy  
as part of the N-Trans Training Programme


Course Description:

This course is designed for electron microscopy users at the nmRC and is suited ideally for novice users or those wanting refresher training. This course will cover:

  • Introduction to the nmRC
  • Introduction to scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
  • Overview of SEM instrumentation
  • Introduction to sample preparation for SEM
  • Strategies for handling bulk, thick/thin film (plan-view/cross-section) and particulate materials
  • Strategies for handling hard, soft and temperature sensitive materials
  • Tripod polishing; dimpling; ion beam thinning; cleaning protocols/plasma cleaning

Learning outcomes:

  • Familiarisation with nmRC facilities
  • Overview of history of SEM
  • Functionality of SEM instrumentation
  • Applications of SEM
  • How to prepare samples for SEM
  • Strategies for handling various materials
  • Specialist techniques and protocols for sample preparation


Course Accessibility

The following table shows a summary of what is needed to participate in the course. 

If you feel you will experience any difficulties participating, please let us know via the ‘special requirements’ tab, providing as much information as possible. The special requirements tab can be completed when you book your place. Alternatively, you can contact us directly at the nmRC.

Print off pre-requisite paperwork/ resources & bring them to the course (optional)
Bring your own laptop/ PC to the course (optional)
Access seminar room on campus
Attend the course at the specified date and time
Watch and listen to the course tutor(s) and/or other attendees
Follow presentation slides during the course


Booking Conditions

Latecomer policy

Researchers should plan to arrive prior to the advertised course start time. Except for exceptional reasons, there will be no admittance to a Researcher Academy or nmRC training course 15 minutes after the advertised course start time.

Importance of booking commitment

When booking on to a short course you are entering into a commitment to attend. If you find that you are no longer available to attend you MUST cancel your place (on the system if more than three days before the course) or if at short notice by emailing ra-training@nottingham.ac.uk. This will ensure that your place can be offered to another researcher on the waiting list. Failure to cancel a place results in other researchers missing out on places through the waiting list process.

It is unacceptable for researchers to just not attend when booked onto a course. The Researcher Academy maintains records of those who repeatedly do not attend courses they have booked. This may affect future eligibility to book onto further Researcher Academy courses and will affect considerations for Researcher Academy funded opportunities.

Pre-Requisites Pre-requisites - Background in Engineering, Physical or Life Sciences 
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