EMC Instrument User Status

User access and scheduling depends on user qualifications and the specific instrumentation requested. There are three categories of user status based on qualifications and research needs.

Assisted User/Trainee:
Assisted Users or Trainees work under the direct supervision of an EMC Staff member (or designated Operators/Users). Assisted Users may lack formal training and/or practical experience in electron microscopy but wish to conduct experiments in the EMC. Trainees must demonstrate a consistent need for access to EMC instruments and must acquire some formal training and/or practical experience in electron microscopy before training can begin.

User:
An EMC User may operate a selected instrument during normal working hours when EMC Staff members are generally present in the building. User status requires completion of instrument-specific training and authorization from an EMC Staff member. Selected users will be expected to assist Trainees.

Operator:
An EMC Operator may operate a selected instrument during all hours, including nights and weekends, as well as serve as a supervisor to Trainees. Operator status requires demonstration of a high degree of proficiency and authorization from the responsible EMC Staff member.

Reserving Instrument Time:
No individual may reserve time on any EMC equipment until he or she becomes at least a qualified User on that particular instrument

External Training Resources:
For researchers who lack academic training and/or practical experience in electron microscopy, we suggest the short courses in SEM and TEM at the McCrone College of Microscopy, and the hands-on TEM courses at Northwestern University or the University of Chicago.

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