Scanning Electron Microscopes and Software for the Life Sciences

SEM instrumentation that supports biological research

From capturing surface topography to reconstructing intricate 3D structures, Thermo Scientific scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) empower life science researchers and facilities to push the boundaries of biological discovery. Our systems can be configured to your current needs and upgraded as your applications grow and expand. You can also rely on our long-term ongoing support, as well as flexible financing options, to help you bring the right SEM solution into your facility. Our flexible instrumentation can even be used to leverage a combination of life and materials sciences techniques to fit the needs of multi-user facilities.

 

Explore our full range of capabilities and find the right SEM solution for your research needs; do not hesitate to contact us, should you have any questions.
 

Scanning electron microscopes for the life sciences

Phenom Pharos Desktop SEM

Easy-to-use tabletop instrument for accessible SEM imaging

  • Benchtop design, ideal for small spaces
  • Low- and high-vacuum operation
  • Minimal room requirements
  • Simple acquisition enables a wide range of experiments
Murine kidney imaged with a Phenom Pharos Desktop SEM using a STEM detector and Maps Software.

Axia ChemiSEM System

Reliable SEM imaging with live quantitative chemical mapping

  • Live quantitative elemental mapping
  • High-fidelity SEM imaging
  • Flexible and easy to use, even for novice users
  • Easy maintenance
Composite material used in dental fillings, analyzed with SEM and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Understanding the dispersion of the different components within the matrix is critical for the proper application of the material.

Quattro ESEM

Image hydrated specimens in their native state

  • Ultra-versatile high-resolution field-emission gun (FEG) SEM with unique environmental capability (ESEM)
  • Simultaneous secondary and backscattered electron imaging in every mode of operation
  • Flexible and precise eucentric stage allows the sample to be observed from all perspectives 
Butterfly wing imaged in a Quattro ESEM under low accelerating voltage and vacuum (80 Pa), revealing surface details. Low-energy electrons probe the top surface rather than penetrating deeper within the sample.

Apreo 2 SEM

2D and volume EM for charge-free, high-contrast imaging 

  • Versatile, high-performance SEM for nanometer or sub-nanometer resolution imaging
  • Automated array tomography for volume electron microscopy acquisition
  • Large multipurpose holder and chamber
  • Live quantitative elemental mapping
Resin-embedded, heavy-metal-stained neuronal tissue imaged in high vacuum. Left) Low-magnification overview. Right) High-magnification regions of interest, showing contrast differences resulting from backscattered electrons.

Verios 5 XHR SEM

Optimized contrast and resolution for low-dose imaging 

  • Monochromated SEM for sub-nanometer resolution over the full energy range (1–30 keV)
  • Easy access to beam landing energies as low as 20 eV
  • Excellent stability with piezo stage as standard
Mouse brain imaged on a Verios 5 SEM at 1.5 keV.

Scanning electron microscopy software for the life sciences

Maps 3 Software for imaging and correlation

Thermo Scientific Maps Software is an imaging and data-correlation software suite compatible with a broad range of analytical data. Smoothly correlate your light microscopy, SEM, focused ion beam SEM (FIB-SEM), and TEM data in a single platform. 

Maps 3 Software for array tomography

Maps Software includes many automation functions for array tomography, designed to reduce the time and effort needed to record nanometer-resolution datasets from plastic-embedded cell and tissue sections.

Amira Software for scanning electron microscopy

Thermo Scientific Amira Software for SEM provides high-definition imaging and comprehensive data analysis. Amira Software is your key to unlocking the full potential of SEM imaging. See how it can bring deeper insights to life science research.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.