Scanning Electron Cryo Microscope (cryoSEM)

• Subject Area: Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
• Term: Funded in 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 342247252

For an efficient structural characterisation in the outlined range of projects, samples need to be checked with respect to their quality and biochemical purity using electron microscopy of negative stained specimens, an easy and fast to perform contrasting method that allows reliable fast feedback. For this a 120keV, LaB6 transmission electron microscope is required. In the focus of the characterisation are evaluation of the sample monodispersity, structural integrity and homogeneity. A 120keV instrument equipped with latest electronics (hence reliable and long-term supported by the manufacturer), a LaB6 electron gun and versatile 4K CMOS detector fulfils these requirements. The instrument mediates the interface between (biochemical / biophysical) sample preparation/characterisation and the subsequent optimisation of vitrification etc. in the 200keV instrument before ultimate high-resolution data acquisition in the high-end 300 keV electron cryo microscopes. Moreover, the 120keV instrument requires capability of collection of initial datasets from negative stained samples, as first indicator and feedback for judging the success of a project before advancing to the cryo sample preparation stage. The instrument will not only be very versatile in its use but will furthermore crucially serve in the initial training of new users in electron (cryo) microscopy (e.g. introduction of vacuum system, electron optics, cryoEM initial training and data acquisition basics) without taking shares of valuable data collection time of the higher end cryoEMs.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Scanning electron cryo microscope (cryoSEM)
• Instrumentation Group: 5100 Elektronenmikroskope (Transmission)
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Leader: Professor Dr. Kay Grünewald