PISA is a high-end research infrastructure offering integrated imaging and spectroscopic technologies for advanced (geo-bio)material analysis across disciplines. The platform hosts a comprehensive suite of electron and optical microscopes, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), with analytical capabilities such as EBSD, EDS, EELS, and SAED and a series of light and fluorescence microscopes. In addition, a wide range of sample preparation tools supports these techniques, including staining, embedding and sample preparation by ultramicrotomy or focused ion beam (FIB), or precision ion polishing systems (PIPS) for precision micro- and nanoscale sectioning and sample preparation.
Emerging capabilities at PISA include cryo-microscopy workflows for the investigation of hydrated and beam-sensitive materials. Cryo sample preparation, cryo ultramicrotomy, and cryo-SEM / TEM are under active development, with a focus on studying natural geo-bio-interfaces of complex environmental systems in their native state.
At the GFZ, PISA enables both fundamental and applied research. Applications range from probing nanoscale reactions at mineral interfaces, biomineralization, mapping organic-inorganic and microbe-mineral boundaries that shape key Earth surface processes such as (bio)weathering, coccolith formation, microbe contributions to elemental cycling, and biotic and abiotic influence on Arctic environments. We are part of the Transnational Access project EXCITE. Furthermore, we focus on characterizing terrestrial crustal and mantle mineral reactions related to ore deposit formation, geodynamic processes or extraterrestrial Martian meteorites and their terrestrial analogues.

PISA is open to external researchers from academia and industry . Collaborative projects are developed via early-stage engagement between PISA staff and external users so as to align scientific objectives with our tailored workflows. Our expert staff provides guidance across the full analytical pipeline. Both short-term projects and long-term collaborations are welcome. Please contact staff via our PISA project proposal form

Detailed information on all of PISA’s modular laboratories is available on our website.