Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis

CMCA New User Registration

How to become a new CMCA user

This page describes the new user registration process recently introduced at CMCA. It contains important details of the information you will need to provide and the steps that you will complete to register with the Centre. You are recommended to read this page before starting the registration form.

If you want to go straight to the registration form, please select the appropriate on-line form:

If you have questions about the new registration process or the information requested on the registration form, check out the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

The new user registration process

In 2009, the CMCA has introduced a new registration process designed to:

• assist researchers and supervisors develop their plans for the use of CMCA facilities;
• identify the most appropriate instruments and techniques to carry out the research;
• work out the best training programme for the researcher;
• identify and resolve any health and safety issues related to the microscopy component of the project.

Before starting the registration process, you should review your research plan and decide what microscopy facilities and techniques you think you will need.

You will then need to complete the online CMCA registration form that will provide all of the information that CMCA staff will require to decide what facilities you will need to use for your research and develop an appropriate training programme. You will need the following information to complete the form:
• Your information (name, affilitation & contact details)
• Your supervisor’s information (name & contact details)
• Emergency contact information (name & contact details)
• A file containing a description of your research project that Centre staff can use to help them understand your microscopy needs
• A list of the main microscopes/techniques you think you will need to access for your project
• Information about your sample, including health and safety issues
• Details of how you will pay for your microscopy access (Business Unit and Project Grant number)
Once the form is submitted, a meeting will be arranged involving you, your supervisor (if you are a student), and the most relevant members of CMCA staff. At that ‘new user meeting’ we will:
• Review your research plan and intended use of CMCA facilities
• Advise you on which microscopy facilities and techniques will be best for your project
• Confirm how and when you will receive training in instrument operation (usually the next round of CMCA training courses)
• Advise you on sample preparation methods for your project
• Confirm how and when you will receive training in sample preparation (if required)
• Discuss any outstanding health and safety issues relating to your samples and confirm any actions that are required before your project can commence

Once you have completed the agreed training programme, you will need to pass an instrument ‘driving test’ where you will be asked to carry out basic operation and/or alignment of the microscope to a satisfactory level under supervision.

Your CMCA registration will commence from the day you take your first instrument driving test.

Please select the appropriate on-line registration form:

If you have questions about the new registration process or the information requested on the registration form, check out the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).