Collaborative Access Team: the Pooled Resources for Electron Microscopy Informatics, Education and Research (PREMIER) Network
EMSL Project ID
49090
Abstract
The executive committee of the Pooled Resources for Electron Microscopy Informatics, Education and Research (PREMIER) network is proposing to continue the collaborative access team (CAT) to optimize scientific productivity for the electron microscopy facilities both within EMSL and at the participating network sites. The purpose of all state-of-the-art imaging and spectroscopic methods in electron microscopy is to provide unique insights into organic/inorganic materials, interfaces and dynamics that can then assist in the design and implementation of new, more efficient devices and/or processes (for example, in the case of the EMSL facilities this means devices/processes that address the nation’s the environment and energy production challenges). Achieving the best results from these advanced methods - the most impact on the overall R&D effort in a particular area - often requires many years of training for the operator in the use of the microscopes and multiple iterations of the experiment in order to be able to quantify all of the critical parameters involved and ensure the optimal experimental design. In addition, although most electron microscopes are typically configured for multiple imaging modes, they are usually optimized for one particular technique. This often results in the microscope"onsite" being used (and inefficiently so) because it is available even if another microscope 50 miles away is better suited to conduct a particular experiment. The goal of the PREMIER network is therefore to link education and training to develop user expertise with the experimental design and the availability of an optimized instrument within the network. For EMSL in particular, this will result in an influx of highly trained users, with preliminary data and analysis performed offsite, who can use the state-of-the-art instruments within the facility with a minimum of onsite training and oversight. These expert users will provide a high level of productive research at minimal costs compared to other, less frequent users. In addition, rather than having users perform microscopy experiments within EMSL on microscopes that are not necessarily suited to their particular needs, EMSL users can also access the instruments within the network - the PREMIER CAT will distribute experiments in both directions. The continuation of the CAT provides a mechanism to facilitate access for the PREMIER network participants to the user facility without over-burdening the standard proposal submission process. Access through this team will require 1) demonstrated results from a network participant prior to allocation of time within EMSL, 2) review of a proposal by a PREMIER network executive committee, 3) approval by the EMSL Capability Lead, and 4) assignment of only a small increment of time per proposal - from a single day to a week at most. The normal policies and procedures for EMSL access will apply to all CAT users, and the success of the team in delivering scientific value will be determined by the usual metrics (publications, invited presentations, citations, etc.).
Project Details
Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2015-12-03
End Date
2016-09-30
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members