Sample Prep and Printing

In addition to major instrumentation, the Microscopy and Imaging Facility (MIF) also offers other research supporting services. All services must be booked on Calpendo and have different scheduling requirements. 

Specimen Preparation

SEM Preparation

Samples for the SEM can be dried or sputter coated at the MIF. For these two preparation methods, we generally have all the required materials. These services are booked on Calpendo and can be scheduled up to one day in advance. 

  • Critical Point Drying: Dries wet specimens in ethanol using CO2 
  • Sputter Coating: Coats specimens in a gold palladium alloy 

CT Scan Preparation

The lab has some fixatives but may not have the best options for your samples. Please reach out well in advance if you need assistance. The MIF does not have any staining supplies and is not fully equipped to handle stained samples. If your sample has been stained, have it fully packed and ready for scanning before arriving at the MIF. 

Printing

Must be booked 2 days in advance.

Poster Printing

  • Large format posters for presentation at academic conferences only 
  • Size limit 44"x65" 
  • Tiff file format 
  • One poster per person 
  • Must be booked at least 2 days in advance 

Posters are printed on semigloss photo paper.