We provide services and instrumentation for imaging and characterization of materials with a heavy bio focus. Some instruments are available for independent use. We also provide full service TEM, cryoTEM, SEM/FIB and cryoSEM/FIB, sample preparation and imaging. Additionally, we conduct CLEM and cryoCLEM workflows utilizing cryoFluorescence, cryoSEM and cryoFIB with a focus on bio samples. In some cases the endpoint imaging is in the SEM/FIB (2D or 3D volumeEM). In other instances samples are transferred to one of a selection of cryoTEMs. We also have a rheometer, AFM, DLS, and Spectradyne (counting & sizing nanoparticles). Our instruments and services are available to both non-profit and for-profit entities.
Facility Policies
Services are offerred outside of Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Consulting is offerred outside of Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cryoplunge 3 system with GentleBlot technology is used for the preparation of frozen hydrated specimens for cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). GentleBlot technology optimizes blotting force and pressure to provide gentle 1- and 2-sided blotting to minimize breakage of fragile specimen supports. Humidified plunging chamber safeguards the specimen from drying during the blotting process. Temperature controlled pot maintains the condensed ethane at its melting point. Specially designed quick disconnect mechanism on plunge rod allows fast and easy attachment of the plunge tweezers to facilitate specimen handling. Removable liquid nitrogen workstation provides a contamination free environment to protect the frozen hydrated specimen [Product Link]
JEM-2100F is a multipurpose, 200 kV FE (Field Emission) analytical electron microscope. Variety of versions is provided to adapt user's purposes. The FE electron gun (FEG) produces highly stable and bright electron probe that is never achieved with conventional thermionic electron gun. This feature is essential for ultrahigh resolution in scanning transmission microscopy and in an analysis of a nano-scaled sample. Various analytical instruments and/or cameras such as EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer) or EELS (electron energy loss spectrometer) or CCD cameras are ready for integration with a PC system of the microscope control. [Product Link]
Vitrified frozen structures are extremely sensitive to environmental influences and need to be protected from the formation of artefacts. Prepare your samples for detailed image evaluation under optimal conditions: Cold shield around the sample avoids water molecules freezing onto your sample, Accurate temperature control during the complete process, Clean Knife fresh blade for each cut avoids contamination, Instant, fast e-beam coating, which captures detailed surface information, and Protected vacuum transfer to other analysis systems. [Product Link]
Leica EM AFS2 is a freeze substitution platform that performs freeze substitution and progressive lowering of temperature (PLT) techniques and allows low temperature embedding and polymerization of resins. The Leica EM FSP (freeze substitution processor), an automatic reagent handling system combined with the Leica EM AFS2, dispenses reagents for both freeze substitution and PLT applications. The LED illumination from within the chamber and the attached stereomicroscope for viewing and positioning of samples ensures ease of use. [Product Link]
Discovery Series Hybrid Rheometer (DHR) system combines a patented advanced drag cup motor, a second generation magnetic bearing, force rebalance transducer (FRT), and the new patent-pending True Position Sensor (TPS) in a single-head Hybrid rheometer. The DHR has unprecedented performance specification and delivers unsurpassed direct strain control, direct stress control, and normal force measurement accuracy. The DHR features all popular TA innovations including patented Smart Swap geometries and the widest range of Smart Swap temperature systems and accessories commercially available. The result is the most advanced, versatile rheometer platform imaginable. The HR-2 is an outstanding general-purpose rotational rheometer for a wide range of analytical, research, and production uses. With performance characteristics suitable for the most demanding measurements and a track-record of reliability, the HR-2 is at home anywhere a rheometer is needed, from around-the-clock production control to cutting-edge research. [Product Link]
MultiMode 8-HR is an atomic force microscope which is well suited for imaging in both air and fluid. Heating to 250C, cooling to -35C with temperature control accessories. Nanothermal analysis for local polymer phase transition temperatures up to 350C.. Atomic resolution electrochemistry with AFM, STM, and SECPM. Invent your own mode by accessing and modifying any signal, high or low voltage. A large variety of standard operating modes and many capabilities enable the MultiMode 8-HR AFM system to characterize everything from mechanical to electrical properties [Product Link]
Plate Reader for dynamic light scattering (DLS) and static light scattering (SLS) measurements of the size, molecular weight and interactions of proteins, nanoparticles and other macromolecules in situ in industry-standard microwell plates. No liquid handling occurs after dispensing into the plates, to maximize throughput and minimize sample carryover. [Product Link]
Zeiss LSM 880 with Airyscan Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope
Fully enclosed laser scanning confocal imaging microscopefor heating and environmental control with media perfusion capabilities and CO2 control. It can be used for Live Cell Imaging, FRET and Anisotropy, FRAP and FLIP, FCS, Photoactivation/ -conversion. [Product Link]
