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Our Story

Protochips started off as a three man business, developing and making MEMS devices. The company has evolved tremendously ever since, with a focus on innovation and an appetite to try new things. At our foundation is the strong desire to create instruments and workflows that solve problems for scientists developing the next generation of materials.

Who Are We?

The story of Protochips is filled with innovation and even more importantly, the success of our customers. Over the course of several years and many design generations, we have developed state-of-the-art in situ TEM holder capabilities that include temperature and environmental control and even liquid phase electrochemistry. Along the way we have also developed solutions for the steps that come before and after the experiment, including sample prep and data analysis. We are completely focused not only on delivering unique capabilities for in situ TEM, but ensuring our solutions have a very high rate of experimental success. We are proud of all our in situ customers that have published over 850 articles in peer reviewed journals. Our engineering team’s designs have won two R&D 100 Awards and three Microscopy Today Innovation Awards, and our manufacturing team has fabricated over 50,000 E-chips for our customers. Looking forward, we are excited to adopt new machine vision technologies for in situ TEM which will greatly enhance performance and productivity for all of our customers. We have big plans … stay in touch with us!

Mission Statement

Protochips’ global team of passionate experts is leading the new standard for innovation in electron microscopy. By combining advanced MEMS technology, in situ solutions, and real-time machine vision workflows, we empower scientists to conduct experiments with unmatched precision, speed, and reproducibility. Our commitment to excellence and innovation drives us to continuously redefine how science is done.

Core Values

Allyship

The practice of working together to support, uplift and hold each other accountable while fostering a sense of collaboration and mutual respect. It involves actively listening, learning from others, and taking collective action to create an environment where everyone feels valued, included, and empowered to contribute their best. By recognizing that we are greater than the sum of our parts, allyship builds strong, supportive and honest relationships to achieve shared goals and promote equity within teams and communities.

Ingenuity

The ability to think creatively and resourcefully to solve problems, innovate, and develop new solutions. It involves applying original thinking, adapting to challenges, and continuously seeking better ways to improve processes, products, and outcomes. Ingenuity drives progress, encourages curiosity, and empowers individuals to push boundaries and transform ideas into impactful results.

Adaptability

The ability to remain flexible and resilient in the face of change, uncertainty, and new challenges while acting with a sense of urgency to meet your goals. It involves embracing new ideas, adjusting strategies, and continuously learning to stay aligned with evolving needs and circumstances. Adaptability empowers individuals and teams to challenge the status quo and turn obstacles into opportunities. Adaptability fuels growth by leveraging ingenuity and allyship.

Driven by Success

A commitment to achieving tangible outcomes through ingenuity, adaptability, and allyship. It involves setting clear goals and establishing timelines to ensure progress is consistently measured and actions are taken to deliver on promises. This value emphasizes a strong work ethic, a results-oriented mindset, and a sense of urgency to overcome challenges in pursuit of success. Being driven by results means staying focused on what matters most, adhering to timelines, and delivering meaningful impact, both individually and as a team.

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.