Solving Problems with Microscopy

Comprehensive resource, based on real case examples, on the ability of the microscope for solving problems

This book takes a “why to” rather than the common “how to” approach to demonstrate the capabilities of microscopy to solve problems. It provides entertaining and informative case examples and lessons regarding the unique value the microscope brings to problem solving by experienced scientists in various industries, including criminal and civil forensic science, manufacturing, environmental science, pharmaceutical science, cultural heritage, and biological sciences. Sample topics covered in this learning resource include:

• History of problem solving with microscopy
• Fortune favors the prepared mind
• The value of multiple associations
• The importance of context
• Knowing your limitations (i.e. knowing what you don’t know)

Microscopists and other professional scientists who use microscopy can harness the information in this book to make better and more informed decisions by improving their problem-solving strategies and processes.

John A. Reffner is a Professor Emeritus of Forensic Science at John Jay College of Criminal Justice with over sixty years of experience working with microscopy. He was instrumental in the development of infrared microspectroscopy, being the inventor of 10 U.S. patents on this technology. He is the Past-President (1979) of the New York Microscopical Society (NYMS).

Brooke W. Kammrath is a Professor of Forensic Science at the University of New Haven and Executive Director of the Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science. She also serves as a scientific consultant and expert witness for both criminal and civil cases. She is the Past-President (2017–2019) of the New York Microscopical Society (NYMS).