Training and Instruction
Internal Users
Non-assisted Users (self operators)
To become an authorized non-assisted user, you must contact the Laboratory Team, request the New User Form, and attend the required training, including the Lab Safety training, which happens during the first 30 minutes of your first session. The number of training sessions depends on your level of experience with the instrument(s) of interest. Keep in mind that each instrument has a specific training protocol, and you need to have a basic theoretical understanding of the technique of interest.
For S/TEM and SEM training, users will first be trained on basic imaging techniques and standard detectors/cameras. Once a user has proven enough competence working unsupervised, they can request training on advanced techniques.
Assisted Users
To become an assisted user, meaning that a member of the NCF Laboratory will operate the instrument while you are present, you must contact the Laboratory Team to request a New Assisted User Form. There is no need to attend additional training sessions unless you want to become a non-assisted user (you operate the instrument).
Notes:
*Be aware that a valid UNM Index Number or Purchase Order is needed to use our facilities.
**Training is charged at an Internal Assisted Rate (Instrument Rate + Staff Rate. See Fees tab for details)
***After training is completed, all users must sign and agree to the NCF/EPS/CMEM Laboratory Policies
External Users
To become an authorized user (non-assisted) or request Lab Services (assisted) you must contact the Laboratory Staff to inform them of your interests and needs. If you would like to become a non-assisted user, you must complete and sign the required forms and attend the mandatory Safety Training and Equipment Training sessions.
If you want to use our facilities as a
non-assisted or assisteduser but have not made previous arrangements for services with NCF/EPS/CMEM, please complete the
New External User Request so we can enter you into the system. Once you complete the form, please contact us via email to confirm the submission of the information. Remember to always contact the Lab Team in charge of a specific instrument to request information. Different instruments may have different needs.
*Training for external users is charged at an External Assisted Rate (Instrument Rate + Staff Rate). See Fees tab for details.
Standard Operating Procedures
The different instruments have Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) that are available to all authorized non-assisted users. All documents are created to serve as aids during training and unsupervised operation. Due to the complexity of the FEI HELIOS NanoLab 650 SEM/FIB, the JEOL NEOARM 200CF TEM/STEM, the Diffractometers, and the Micro CT instruments, the SOPs will be provided during training.
