Tucked in the basement of the AN Bourns Science Building on McMaster University’s Campus is a powerhouse of scientific discovery: the Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy (CCEM); home to some of the most advanced research microscopes in the world.
While few outside the research community may know of its existence, CCEM plays a vital role in advancing nanotechnology, clean energy and semiconductor innovation. To bring this hidden gem into the spotlight, the Centre hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house on June 20, welcoming guests to explore the world of atomic-scale science and the groundbreaking work happening right on campus.
The day started with the grand opening of the Spectra Ultra, a state-of-the-art electron microscope capable of imaging and analyzing materials at the atomic level. It’s an ultra-high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscope designed for high-energy-resolution analytical work.
The Spectra Ultra represents a leap forward in our ability to explore and understand materials. It’s not just a tool, it’s a gateway to discoveries that will shape the technologies of tomorrow.
The Spectra Ultra enables researchers to visualize and analyze materials with unprecedented precision making it a powerful asset for fields ranging from nanotechnology and semiconductors to biomaterials and clean energy.
Distinguished guests participated in the ribbon cutting including Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath, Nabil Bassim, CCEM Director and Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at McMaster and Andy Knights, Acting Vice-President of Research and Professor of Engineering Physics at McMaster.
Jeff Pageau, President of Systems for Research and Ruth Chalmers, Senior Director of Sales, Sciences and the Americas at Thermo Fisher Scientific (TFS), supported the event as TFS is the designer and manufacturer of the Spectra Ultra.
“The Spectra Ultra represents a leap forward in our ability to explore and understand materials,” said Professor Bassim. “It’s not just a tool, it’s a gateway to discoveries that will shape the technologies of tomorrow. We’re proud to share this moment with our collaborators and industry partners.”
Later in the day, the CCEM welcomed more than 150 guests from academia, industry and the local community to its first-ever open house. Attendees had the opportunity to tour the facility, meet expert staff and experience firsthand how electron and ion microscopy are used to solve real-world challenges.
McMaster Engineering’s Community Outreach team prepared relevant, hands-on activities for the nearly 60 kids in attendance. They included colouring activities of microscopic images and experimenting with Ozobots – mini coding robots.
“Welcoming guests into our facility to witness the cutting-edge research happening right in their own community was a powerful opportunity to connect, inspire and spark curiosity – especially among young minds,” says Bassim.
“It’s a chance to show how materials engineering shapes the world around us and why it matters in everyday life.”
About the Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy (CCEM)
Located at McMaster University, CCEM is a national research facility that provides access to one of the most advanced suites of electron microscopy instruments in the world. Its mission is to empower researchers and partners to tackle tomorrow’s material problems through cutting-edge imaging and analysis.
