Illinois State receives $403,900 grant for state-of-the-art microscope

Posted on April 5, 2022
Twenty-five professors from multiple Universities were involved in the process of securing the grant. (Photo Courtesy of Illinois State)

By Jake Fogal

BLOOMINGTON – A state of the art microscope is making it’s way to Illinois State this summer as a National Science Foundation(NSF) grant of nearly $404,000 made it all possible.

Dr. Mahua Biswas, Assistant Professor in Physics at Illinois State, spoke volumes on the impact this will have for not only ISU, but Central Illinois.

“This is an amazing resource for ISU and nearby institutions in Central Illinois,” said Dr. Biswas. “It will move our already cutting-edge research in different levels and open up avenues and hands-on experience for students.” 

Twenty-five professors from multiple Universities were involved in the process of securing the grant.

“There are 25 other professors who are involved in the proposal. They are also going to use it. That includes professors from Illinois Wesleyan, Millikin University, Illinois-Springfield and Bradley University,” Dr. Biswas said.

Dr. Biswas mentioned that other universities involved in the students in K through 12 at Thomas Metcalf School and University High will also have access to the microscope, which is set to be located in Moulton Hall on campus.

The microscope is set to debut towards the latter part of this summer.

Jake Fogal can be reached at [email protected].

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