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How can I use the microprobe? Is there training?
Most new users either enroll in ESCI/MATS 5353 or receive individual instruction from either the laboratory manager. Please note that, for individual instruction, normal user fees apply. After a new user has shown his or her ability to work safely and effectively without assistance, the manager will certify him or her to work during evenings and weekends. Please feel free to contact the laboratory manager with any questions or concerns about training to use our microprobe.
I am not from the University of Minnesota. Can I use the microprobe?
Yes, we welcome new users from outside the University of Minnesota. External users can be trained to use the microprobe or, under some circumstances, can have their analyses done for them by lab personnel. Our users have come from colleges and universities throughout the Midwest.
I do not want to run the microprobe myself. Will you do it for me?
Yes, under many circumstances, you can either send or bring us your specimens or watch while we conduct the analyses.
How and when do I pay for microprobe use?
For internal users, the fees are charged directly to your EFS budget number. For external users, after a few weeks, you will receive a bill in the mail, which may be paid by check or credit card. It is also possible for users to pre-pay for time. We often do this when grant money will shortly turn back into pumpkins.
I am an educator and would like images/data for my class. Can you help?
Our goals include supporting teaching. We recognize that educators ordinarily do not have funds to develop a new course or improve an existing one -- microprobe fees are out of the question. Please contact us about your needs. We will see if our "stock" images have what you need or if we can work with you to fulfill what you would like to do for your class.
Can you talk about electron microprobe analysis to my class/company?
Our mission as a lab includes outreach and public service. Our course on electron microprobe theory and practice uses PowerPoint presentations, and we can bring this material to schools, classes, or companies. Please feel free to ask if we are available for a talk at a time that fits your schedule.
Can you give a tour of the microprobe lab to my class/company?
It depends on the schedule and the number of students. As mentioned already, we are interested in outreach and public service, so our lab has given tours to middle- and high-school students interested in science, archaeology students interested in stone tool analysis, and many others. Also, companies that we serve have been interesting in visiting our lab. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in a tour, and we will let you know if it is feasible.
What form does the data take? Is it a hard copy or a file?
Quantitative data can be exported as a tab-delineated text file that can be opened in Excel, SPSS, or any other spreadsheet program. Maps and images are exported as raw data, which can, in turn, be imported to ImageJ or other programs. All data can be printed, e-mailed, or saved to USB drive.
Do you have the standards that I need for my analyses?
It depends -- what do you want to analyze? Tell us what you would like to do, and we will see what standards we have that suite your needs. Also, we are usually working on new standards, so our collection is constantly growing.
Do I have to acknowledge the lab in my publications?
Yes! Acceptance of academic user rates also means that the user accepts the lab's policy on acknowledgement in and notification of publication, which is described here -- please familiarize yourself with this policy.
Can you recommend any books about electron microprobe analysis?
Yes -- check out our book recommendations if you would like to learn more.
Is there a listserver for users of JEOL electron microprobes?
Yes, our lab runs the Probe User Listserver -- it is JEOL-focused, but everyone is welcome. Sign up today!
I am out-of-town. Are they any good hotels nearby?
There are numerous hotels near the University; the five closest are:
Radisson Metrodome
615 Washington Avenue SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Phone: 800-333-3333 or 612-379-8888
http://www.radisson.com/
Best Western
2600 University Avenue SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Phone: 800-350-0020 or 612-379-2313
http://www.bestwestern.com/
Econo Lodge
2500 University Avenue SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Phone: 800-553-2666 or 612-331-6000
http://www.econolodge.com/
Days Inn University
2407 University Avenue SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Phone: 800-3750-3990 or 612-623-9303
http://www.daysinn.com/
Holiday Inn Metrodome
1500 Washington Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55454
Phone: 800-448-3663 or 612-333-4646
http://www.metrodome.com/
A search at Yahoo, Google, or a hotel website will also reveal numerous hotels in nearby downtown Minneapolis (which shares several bus routes with the University) and in other convenient locations.
probelab@umn.edu
Phone: 612-624-7370
With respect to geoscience research, our electron microprobe is often used for igneous, metamorphic, and experimental petrology as well as mineral studies and geochronology. In addition to rocks and minerals, we have conducted analyses of metals and alloys, thin films, ceramics and composites, glass, optical fibers, teeth and bones, and many other natural and artificial materials.
We have experience analyzing various materials for industrial purposes, including:
Our clients have come from numerous industries and research fields, including: