There are many electron microscope centers around the world and it is well recognized that there is no single “right” way to develop successful research and teaching electron microscope organizations.

The model for this discussion is that of the Center for High Resolution Electron Microscopy (CHREM) at Arizona State University. Several factors, including but not limited to those discussed below, have contributed to the continuing growth and development of this Center.

The Center serves students and faculty from eight separate academic units. It is also accessible to a significant number of microscope users from outside the university. These include researchers from industry as well as other academic institutions. The number of active instrument users typically averages eighty per year. There are ten instruments available to those who successfully complete the requirements for microscope use. It is not necessary to discuss the physical plant which houses the Center's instruments. Although very important, this topic has been adequately discussed elsewhere by experienced researchers.