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Use of MMRC Instruments by Caltech Graduate Students, Postdocs and Visitors

New users

Only trained users are allowed to use MMRC instruments. For training users must be vaccinated against the virus that causes Covid19. Users must supply a PTA number when they are trained to pay for Instrument Charges. All untrained people can only enter MMRC labs under the supervision of a Graduate Laboratory Assistant (GLA) or a trained user and are not allowed to operate any instrument. Caltech researchers who want to use the Center's instruments should read the instrument's manual (see the MMRC website for the instrument) and follow the instructions below.

Hourly Rates for Instrument Usage

The hourly rates for instrumentation usage and training in the MMRC are given here.

MProbe XPS, Kratos Ultra XPS, and HREELS Instruments

To use the M-Probe XPS, Kratos XPS, or the LKTech HREELS instruments you need to read the relevant manuals (shown below) and write a short research proposal (see proposal requirements below). After this is approved you will be contacted by a GLA for training.
MProbe read the M-Probe Manual,
HREELS read the local Users Manual, LK500 Operations manual and LK5000 Supplementary manual,
Kratos Is reserved for advanced users. To use the Kratos XPS your proposal must give reasons why you need the specific capabilities of the Kratos. You should read (chapter 2 and chapter 3) for the Kratos Manual,

If you only expect to use an instrument a few times or for a few samples, we urge you to consider finding a collaborator who is already a trained user rather then going through the training process yourself. The instrument GLAs can help suggest researchers who may be willing to collaborate with you.

Multi-Mode-8 AFM, Asylum-MFP-Bio AFM, and Digital System ECSTM

Other MMRC Instruments

Researchers who would like to make use any of the Center's instruments not listed above should read the manuals for the instrument listed on the instrument's website and then contact the instrument's GLA for training.

Outside Users

The Center does not perform contract research or analyze samples for a fee. The center does host a limited number of outside users from nonprofit universities. If you are a researcher at a university who would like to make use of an MMRC instrument you will need to contact the director with a short proposal (see below).

Proposal Requirements>

• The experiment you want to perform, including the specific instruments and experimental techniques you will use.
• A description of your sample, preparation and chemical and physical properties.
• The data you hope to obtain, and a justification of how these data will aid your understanding of your project.
• Literature references to similar studies that have been performed.
• Projected number of samples and frequency of use of the instrument.
• Proposals should be sent to the GLA for the instrument and to the MMRC Director.

Use by Undergraduates