Meet Protochips

Vision statement

To make the process of scientific discovery smarter, faster and easier

About us

Founded in 2002 in Morrisville, North Carolina, Protochips began as a three-person company focused on developing MEMS-based technologies. Since then, the company has grown into a global provider of advanced in situ solutions for a variety of analytical techniques including transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Today, Protochips designs and manufactures hardware, consumables, and software that enable researchers to study materials and processes in real time under precisely controlled heating, sub-zero, electrical, liquid, and pressurized gaseous environments. Serving customers across academia, government laboratories, and industry, Protochips supports research in materials science, energy storage, electronics, nanotechnology, and other advanced scientific fields.

our mission

At Protochips, our purpose is to provide cutting edge products that enable researchers to achieve world class in situ results that accelerate scientific discovery. We believe that customer success depends on more than advanced instrumentation, which is why we develop complete workflows that integrate hardware, consumables, software, and expert support.

From sample preparation to data analysis, our solutions are designed to simplify complex experiments and improve reliability. Supported by a global team of highly trained scientists, engineers, and application specialists, we partner with researchers around the world to help them generate meaningful results and advance their fields of study.

Peer Reviewed Publications

> 200

Innovation Awards Won

E-chips Fabricated

> 1000

Patents Awarded

> 1

Systems Worldwide

> 50

founders perspective

"When we founded Protochips, our vision was to transform electron microscopy from an observation tool into a platform for discovery. Today, we continue to advance this vision by combining innovative instrumentation, intelligent data analysis, and scientific collaboration to help researchers understand the materials that will shape our future."

"Success goes beyond business performance; it is also measured by new possibilities we can create together. The products developed by our team have transformed what researchers can observe and understand at the nanoscale, and the pace of scientific discovery continues to accelerate. I look forward to the future knowing that today's achievements are just the foundation, and that Protochips will be an essential part of tomorrow’s breakthroughs."

2002

Founding of Protochips

2009

Aduro

World's 1st commercial MEMS heating holder

2011

Poseidon

Liquid cell for TEM launched

2013

R&D100 Award and Microscopy Today Innovation Award

for Poseidon Electrochemistry

2014

Atmosphere

World’s 1st commercial MEMS gas

2015

Publication in Nanoletters

Electrochemical quantification of Li batteries shown with Poseidon

2019

R&D100 Award and Microscopy Today Innovation Award

for Atmosphere Catalysis

2020

AXON Launched

Worlds 1st TEM metadata/machine vision software

2022

Publication in Science

Wei Lab images individual benzene molecules in Atmosphere

2023

Microscopy Today Innovation Award

for AXON Dose

2024

Triton AX

World's 1st Heating and Cooling Electrochemical Cell

2025

Sol for Atmosphere AX

Controlled Illumination for Operando Photocatalytic TEM

2025

R&D100 Award and Microscopy Today Innovation Award

for Triton AX Heating and Cooling Electrochemical Cell

core values

Allyship

Allyship is the practice of supporting one another, valuing diverse perspectives, and working together toward shared success. We are stronger when everyone feels included, respected, and empowered.

Adaptability

Adaptability is the ability to stay flexible and resilient in the face of change and uncertainty while continuing to make progress toward goals. It involves learning, adjusting, and responding effectively as circumstances evolve.

Ingenuity

Ingenuity is using original thinking and resourcefulness to improve outcomes, push boundaries, and drive innovation together.

Driven by Success

Being driven by results means focusing on meaningful outcomes and delivering on commitments. It involves clear goals, steady progress, and adapting when needed to ensure work translates into real impact.

TEM Data Management

Browse our data management section to learn more about how we can best serve your needs.

In Situ TEM Solutions

Browse our other products to learn more about how we can best serve your needs.