Welcome to the Shared Instrumentation Facility at the Colorado School of Mines. Our labs bring together advanced equipment, technical expertise, and collaborative spaces—all in one central hub.
The SIF houses a wide range of laboratories dedicated to inspection, analysis, and fabrication. By providing open access to a comprehensive suite of tools, our facility makes it easy for users across disciplines to carry out advanced testing and analysis.
Our high-resolution optical and electron microscopes capture features down to the nanoscale. 3D imaging and scanning systems provide precise dimensional measurements and surface characterization. These capabilities are critical for identifying defects, verifying designs, and ensuring the quality of complex components.
Spectroscopy and diffraction tools reveal the composition and structure of materials with extraordinary detail. With these instruments, we can detect contaminants, verify material identity, and analyze the chemical properties that drive performance.
Our cleanroom and fabrication labs are built around a powerful suite of instruments that make advanced prototyping and microfabrication possible.
Lithography systems provide the ability to create micro- and nanoscale patterns with extraordinary precision. Etch tools enable selective removal of materials, shaping structures at the smallest dimensions. A full array of thin film deposition systems supports diverse approaches to material growth and layering, from metals to complex composites. Together, these instruments form the backbone of our nanofabrication facilities. They give researchers and industry partners the precision, flexibility, and reliability needed to build and test the next generation of microelectronics and emerging technologies.
The SIF is designed for accessibility. Users can reserve time on instruments, receive training, or rely on staff expertise for guided analysis. For added convenience, samples can be submitted directly to our facility, where our team conducts measurements and provides high-quality data. Whether in-person or remote, we make advanced capabilities simple to access.