Involvement and Learning: Key Elements of MICROSCIENCE

MICROSCIENCE 2010 at Excel in London (Jun 28th– July 1st) is promising events and topics of interest to suit all involved in microscopy and microtechnology, with the chance to see the latest advances in technology at the integral Trade Exhibition. Providing a varied and inspiring programme of lectures and speakers, the International Conference boasts three parallel themes on each day covering Life, Materials, New Techniques and Frontiers. In addition the event also hosts the UK SPM which adds a 4th parallel theme to proceedings. This popular meeting, to be held on June 30th and July 1st, will cover a wide range of topics associated with Scanning Probe Microscopy including main techniques such as atomic force microscopy and scanning tunnelling microscopy as well as more specialised versions. A variety of applications from biological molecules, biomaterials, polymers, crystals, metal and catalyst surfaces, nanostructures, nanomanipulation, instrument and probe development, and more, will be explored.

Part of the Royal Microscopical Society’s remit is to teach and improve microscopy and a major feature at MICROSCIENCE is The Learning Zone, a fully equipped lab offering working scientists and technicians the opportunity to learn new techniques from their peers and the chance to discuss difficulties they may be having with specimen preparation. Located in the main hall, the Learning Zone is free and incorporates separate
areas: Understanding Scanning Electron Microscopy; Understanding Light Microscopy; Understanding Digital Microscopy and Understanding Confocal Microscopy. In addition, there is a dedicated theatre that will host a
programme of introductory talks. There’s no need to book in advance, just turn up on the day.

Alongside the international trade exhibition will be the acclaimed programme of special ‘Hands-on’ Workshops. Originally introduced in 2002, the free to all workshops give visitors the chance to learn more about the practical details of the conference topics and microscopy in general. They all take place on the Main Hall Floor in one of workshop theatres and in the main conference lecture theatres during the lunchbreaks.

Also on display will be the short-listed entries received for the popular RMS International Micrograph Competition with winners to be revealed at the event. More than 100 micrographs were submitted this year with stunning entries in all categories; Light Microscopy - Life, Light Microscopy - Materials, Electron Microscopy - Life, and Electron Microscopy – Materials. “This competition goes from strength to strength,” said Dr Hutchison, a former President of the Society and one of this year’s judging panel. “We receive entries from all over the world, and the standard is very, very high. It is a great opportunity for microscopists to showcase their skills and
their work, and it provides an outlet for those that can capture the breathtaking and engaging beauty of the microscopical world.”

Professor Chris Hawes, another former President of the Society and competition judge, said: “We look for images that have a scientific quality as well as outstanding aesthetic appeal. This provides us with truly eyecatching displays. We are sure that this year will generate another crop of outstanding entries and it is going to be a difficult task to pick the winners.”

The shortlisted images can be viewed now, along with details of registration for MICROSCIENCE 2010 and future RMS meetings on the Society’s website: www.rms.org.uk/events