Acquisition of a High Resolution, Analytical SEM to Enhance Interdisciplinary Research Capabilities at Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University, Lubbock TX

Investigators

Abstract

This award provides partial support for the acquisition of a versatile, high-resolution, analytical scanning electron microscope (HRSEM). The instrument will serve the research needs of at least 15 investigators from several different departments or centers on the Texas Tech University campus. The research areas to be positively impacted are diverse and multidisciplinary - they include: plant pathology, slime mold development and cryopreservation, plant functional genomics and genetics, reproductive endocrinology, geochemistry, igneous petrology and structural geology, molecular dynamics of liquid crystals, catalysis, metals research, and nanotechnology. The acquisition of this instrumentation will have a large impact on infrastructure in the region, and will also aid in establishing collaborative and interdisciplinary relationships with industry and other universities. The institution is committed to graduate and undergraduate research training, and is also active in community outreach.