Electron Probe Instrumentation Center (EPIC)

EPIC is part of the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at Northwestern University, housing one of the most complete arsenals of routine and state-of-the-art electron microscopes in the world. EPIC also receives some support from the Institute for Nanotechnology's NSF-sponsored Nanoscale Science & Engineering Center (NSEC) at Northwestern University, as well as from the State of IL and NU.

EPIC houses the following instruments for scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) including scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), focused-ion beam (FIB) and specimen preparation facility (SPF).  EPIC jointly collaborates with the Quantitative Bioelemental Imaging Center core facility as well. 

The primary objective of our mission is to enhance the education, collaboration, research, and outreach - related to all aspects of electron probe instrumentation, techniques, and applications.

Our facility is wholly multi-user and multi-departmental, with all equipment available for use by qualified individuals. Four highly qualified microscopists manage the EPIC facility, directed by Prof. Vinayak P. Dravid. Regular training sessions and short courses are offered as part of EPIC's educational programs.

Click here to view our instruments.