The University of Queensland is leading a new training project in advanced microscopy dubbed MyScope, which involves a consortia of six major Australian universities and the Australian Microscopy and Microanalysis Research Facility.

 

The project is supported by an Australian Learning and Teaching Council grant and the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.

 

MyScope is built around an interactive website (ammrf.org.au) - a "how-to" for an array of ever-changing and highly complex research laboratory equipment.

 

In addition to the scanning electron microscope module, future modules planned for the website include transmission electron microscopy; X-ray diffusion; atomic force microscopy; confocal microscopy; and microanalysis.

 

Project leader, Dr Bronwen Cribb, from UQ's Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, said the sheer range of technologies and equipment currently available and in high demand by Australian students and research scientists required an adaptable learning and teaching environment with nationally agreed standards.

 

"MyScope is designed to address this need and represents a first stage in an approach that will change the educational landscape and foster further success in research outcomes," she said.

 

"There is demand for education in high-end, science-based technology across Australia and internationally. The disciplines involved are found under names such as nanotechnology, micro and nano-imaging, and cell-labeling.

 

"We have entered an era where we now regularly engineer biology to develop new materials and complex medical solutions.

 

"So it is not surprising that with each passing year, there are many more students needing to learn and use the methods and tools involved." 

 

For more information go to ammrf.org.au