Quantum Detectors install MerlinEM at RFI

The Rosalind Franklin Institute is no stranger to cutting-edge technology and is leading the way with new discoveries to tackle important health research challenges. Continuing earlier this year with a unique microscope arriving at the laboratory. The Ruska microscope is the first of three instruments being developed jointly with electron microscope manufacturer, JEOL Ltd, shipped to the UK from the company’s headquarters in Japan.

“‘Ruska’ will work with biological samples, both cryogenically frozen and in liquids, enabling imaging of molecules in motion. By combining high speeds with liquid cells, the Ruska microscope will be able to ‘film’ proteins as they fold or image drugs interacting with other molecules. For cryogenically frozen samples, the frames captured as the beam passes through the sample will enable the creation of 3D models of biological structures, such as viruses or proteins.” – Unique microscope to film molecules in motion – Rosalind Franklin Institute

The Correlated Imaging Team at The Rosalind Franklin Institute chose to have the Quantum Detectors MerlinEM 4R Direct Electron Detector (DED) on their microscope. The MerlinEM DED is an advanced detector development in the field of Electron Microscopy, combining direct detection of electrons and rapid readout in a pixelated format ideal for applications in 4D STEM and TEM dynamic imaging.

Correlated Imaging Deputy Director, Dr Judy Kim said “By combining our customised electron source with the speed and sensitivity of the QD Merlin detector, we hope to enable new methods to study soft bio- and medical materials. The door to possibilities is now open and we are excited to get started.”

Dr Olivia Sleator of Quantum Detectors stated “We’re looking forward to advancing our relationship with The Rosalind Franklin Institute and seeing the new discoveries that come from our MerlinEM detector on this state-of-the-art technology.”

For more information on the MerlinEM see here