Following a three-year pandemic-related hiatus, the Lehigh Microscopy School resumed in 2023, welcoming 78 participants to the program that “has been instrumental in shaping the field of electron microscopy,” according to LMS Director Christopher J. Kiely, Harold B. Chambers Senior Professor of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE).

The June 4-9 session—the school’s 50th iteration—provided instruction in the fundamental techniques of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Focused Ion Beam (FIB) systems.

Attendees, including students, researchers, and industry professionals from across the United States and abroad, gained valuable insights and hands-on experience using cutting-edge equipment.

The school features a carefully crafted curriculum, says Kiely, including lectures, practical workshops, and interactive sessions delivered by renowned experts who are dedicated to passing along the knowledge and skills needed to push the boundaries of microscopic exploration.

Those experts include LMS Co-Director and MSE Professor Masashi Watanabe, Frank Platek (FDA), and Dale Newbury (National Institute of Standards and Technology). Newberry received special recognition this year, having participated in each of the 50 LMS sessions. Platek is also a long-time instructor, having taught at 19 LMS sessions.

Kiely, Watanabe, Platek, and Newbury are all Fellows of the Microscopy Society of America.

Banquet table in Wood Dining Room
From right, Shane Cohen, Director, Corporate & Foundation Relations (Rossin College); LMS instructors Frank Platek (red shirt) and Dale Newbury (white shirt); MSE Dept Chair Ricardo Castro; Leslie O’Brien, SEM Manager; and Zach Polzer, Business Manager

“This year, another enthusiastic cohort of students delved into the intricacies of electron microscopy, taking full advantage of the vibrant exchange of knowledge and the collaborative environment that is the hallmark of the Lehigh Microscopy School,” says Kiely. “We are already looking forward to the 2024 session, as we continue to explore the latest advancements in this rapidly evolving field and equip our students with the skills to advance research and innovation across diverse scientific disciplines.”

The Lehigh Microscopy School is offered in conjunction with Lehigh’s Institute for Functional Materials and Devices (I-FMD). For more information, visit the LMS website and follow on LinkedIn.

Lehigh Microscopy School Logo

Chris Kiely

Lehigh Microscopy School Director Christopher J. Kiely is Harold B. Chambers Senior Professor of Materials Science and Engineering.

Masashi Watanabe
 
Lehigh Microscopy School Co-Director Masashi Watanabe is a professor of materials science and engineering.