The Executive Program Group for Microscopy and Microanalysis 2004 set out with the challenge of drafting a compelling scientific program for the annual meetings of the Microscopy Society of America (MSA) and the Microbeam Analysis Society (MAS) that would be equal to the excitement of organizational change being discussed by the societies. We feel that we have met the challenge, providing a diverse and balanced program that looks forward to new opportunities and presents the current state-of-the-art for microscopy and microanalysis. For the third consecutive year, the program is strengthened by the co-sponsorship of the International Metallographic Society (IMS), which is fast becoming an annual partner in the M&M meetings. M&M is the largest annual meeting of its kind in the world, and features an awesome commercial exhibit of microscopy and microanalysis equipment and accessories, with the latest commercial innovations featured and available for hands-on demonstration. We envision Savannah as a venue that will be remembered for historic steps forward in science and technology. The heart of the program comprises symposia in areas of biological sciences applications, physical sciences applications, and advances in instrumentation and technique, which feature both invited and contributed papers, and both platform and poster presentations. Contributed sessions are featured in a comprehensive topical listing.