How much does it cost to image a sample in the electron microscopes?
Every project is different, depending on the complexity of the protocol and the instruments used. However there are basic preparation procedures that are commonly used, and an estimate for University of Missouri clients can be given based on these. Please note: Most samples are cheaper than the following estimates! First, less than an hour of scope time may be needed, which would cut the cost accordingly (we have a 30-minute minimum charge). Second, users can easily learn to use the scopes alone, which subtracts the cost of an operator ($35.00 per hour!), from your total. Third, other instruments in the Core, such as the critical point dryer and sputter coater, can be used independently by the researcher at a lower cost than the service rate. Although we will happily provide soup-to-nuts service, we encourage all of our users to reduce their costs by learning to do as many things as possible themselves. Procedures marked with an * below can easily be done by users at substantial saving
