Training

Getting Started

Introduction

The Center for Nanoscale Research (CNR) drives nanotechnology innovation by offering scientists and researchers convenient, centralized access to the fabrication, measurement, and characterization of nanoscale materials and devices at the University of Alabama. CNR contains primary nanofabrication facilities within the College of Engineering, which are managed by our expert staff who instruct users in the operation of our equipment and instruments:

Become a User: Access to World-Class Facilities

Registration as a user is strictly required prior to undergoing training on any of our instruments or equipment. Completing this registration grants you entry to CNR login page, which serves as
our web-based billing and laboratory/tool reservation platform. You can utilize CNR login page to book equipment and submit training requests.

Operating within the CNR cleanroom requires adherence to highly detailed protocols. CNR personnel must evaluate and approve your proposed project before you can proceed. Comprehensive instructions regarding the CNR onboarding process are available at Join – CNR.

Should you require further information regarding our characterization services or wish to evaluate the compatibility and feasibility of your project, please contact any members of the advisory
committees via CNR@eng.ua.edu. If you are ready to proceed, you may directly REQUEST ACCESS. For additional details concerning CNR Login Page and the onboarding procedures, please navigate
to Support@ua.edu. Should you have any inquiries related to project initiation, the onboarding process, or ACT Card access, please direct them to CNRSTAFF@eng.ua.edu.

Join

Need to use the cleanroom equipment?

Please follow the instructions below to gain entry to the Center for Nanoscale Research. Authorization will be granted only after every step is fully complete. Upon receiving authorization, you may enter the cleanroom and submit requests for instrument training.

1. Submit the Project Form, detailing the nature of your proposed work. Ensure you
   include sufficient detail to allow our team to accurately assess your requirements.
2. Meet with a member of the advisory committee to discuss your project further.
3. Complete the Access Request Form
   1. For internal users: Our administration will send you a document via DocuSign for your digital signature. This form requests information about your advisor, your department, and an account number associated with your name for billing purposes.
   2. For external users:
      1. It may be necessary to finalize an external user agreement, provided your institution does not currently have an active one on file. Because the timeline for this procedure varies, it is highly recommended to turn in this paperwork as soon as possible.
      2. Submitting this document will additionally initiate the procedure for obtaining an ID card. You are required to collect this in person at the on-campus ID card office, presenting a valid form of identification. Ensure you also obtain the necessary instructions to activate your myBama ID! This activation is mandatory to utilize CNR. NOTE: ACT cards issued to external users will restrict building entry until every onboarding phase is finalized.
4. Complete the CNR Orientation Video Training, General Safety Training Video, and Quiz shortly before initiating any activities within the cleanroom environment (no more than two weeks prior). A verification of your quiz results will be sent to your email address. You are permitted to fulfill this requirement at the same time as Step 3.
5. Attend the QNF Walkthrough. Register for this session by contacting CNR staff via CNRSTAFF@eng.ua.edu. The guided tour commences at the CNF gowning area in NERC building