International Electron Microscopy Technology Organizations

The term microscopy refers to the scientific field of research involving the use of microscopes in the study of matter. This tool is used in a variety of areas of scientific research including physics, biology, chemistry, materials science, polymers, and medicine.

Optical: Optical microscopy involves the use of light or electromagnetic radiation. Light interacts with the matter that is to be observed, and the nature of that interaction provides insight into the properties of the material. Incident electromagnetic radiation can interact with the matter through refraction, diffraction, or reflection.

Electron: Because light has a very high wavelength compared to the scale of inter-atomic distances, it has limited application in the study of matter on an atomic scale including the study of cell organelles in biological or medical research. Much higher resolution can be achieved using an electron beam due to the much smaller wavelength of electrons.

A holographic image can be produced using digital holographic microscopy (DHM). A coherent light source is employed and a sensor is used to intercept and record interfering wavefronts. The data is then analyzed and a three dimensional image of the subject can be produced. Because all of the focus planes are recorded simultaneously, the focus can be adjusted after collection of the data.

Please see the links section for external links to valuable resources and to find upcoming meetings of the Electron Microscopy Congress and other conferences. You will also find information on universities offering graduate school programs and other education resources. In the near future we will include job postings and industry contacts.