mmc2017 – The Very Best in Microscopy

Over 1340 passionate microscopists made their way to Manchester in July, to experience a mixture of inspirational talks, practical workshops from experts and engage with a huge number of companies ready to answer questions and present demonstrations at mmc2017.

The exciting conference incorporated the Microscopy Society of Ireland and the Scottish Microscopy Group for the first time this year. The scientific programme included sessions from Advanced Spectroscopy to Bespoke Light Microscopy for Molecular Level Imaging with inspirational talks such as Combining super-resolution fluorescence and atomic force microscopy and Charting new frontiers in heterogenous catalysis with multi-dimensional electron microscopy.

mmc2017 also included flash talks for the first time in the conference. These 5 minute talks from poster presenters were brilliant for students and early career researchers to raise awareness of their posters ahead of the evening’s poster sessions. These were well received by presenters and delegates alike and allowed some really interesting research to be raised, leading to further discussions in the Poster Village.

The lively exhibition featured over 130 companies and there were some really exciting new products on display at many of the stands which attracted crowds of visitors with their accompanying demonstrations and workshops. Many visitors commented that it was these demonstrations and sneak previews that really stood out in their memories of mmc2017. A brilliant range of instruments and services were represented and this helped to secure the mmc-series exhibitions as Europe’s largest dedicated to microscopy and imaging.

As well as stand demonstrations, many exhibitors also offered free half hour drop-in workshops in designated areas around the exhibition hall. From fluorescence to x-ray microscopy and SEM to SPM there was a really great selection to choose from for all mmc2017 attendees. Those wanting a more basic introduction to many techniques were able to visit the Seminar Theatre on the RMS Learning Zone where impartial experts were able to deliver informative presentations followed by hands-on practice on a range of equipment in the Learning Zone. Unique to the mmc-series, the RMS Learning Zone was always busy and full of great questions and interesting tips and tricks.

The Microscience Microscopy Congress Series is organised by the Royal Microscopical Society. Mark the next event in your diary; mmc2019 will take place from 1 – 4 July 2019 in Manchester.
Find out more about this year’s event and sign up to the mmc-series enewsletter for updates at www.mmc-series.org.uk