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Short abstract:

This study focuses on the use of electron microscopy in materials science for sample collection and observation. Electron microscopes impose strict discipline on operators' body. Scientists who have acquired tacit knowledge gradually become a symbiont with the instruments in the embodied practice.

Long abstract:

Electron microscopes are widely used in materials science and their ultra-high resolution allows scientists to study the micro-structure and characterization of materials in detail, promoting the development of science.

This article adopts a qualitative research methodology in which the author conducted a four-month field work in a national large-scale instrumentation center in China. The laboratory's electron microscope equipment is among the top in the world, including several scanning electron microscopes and transmission electron microscopes.

This study adopts a symmetrical perspective, focusing on the use of electron microscopy in materials science for sample collection and observation. The work shows that the electron microscope, as a central actor in the laboratory, imposes strict discipline and various restrictions on researchers' body. The electron microscope can only function effectively providing researchers' eyes, arms and torso remain in a specific position, which is extremely crucial for the production of scientific results. Meanwhile, the scientists, who gradually acquire tacit knowledge of the electron microscope, utilize their empirical body as an important research tool. Well-performing scientists eventually become a symbiont with the instruments during the embodied practice. The body, which has rich connotations, interacts with micro-technology and is enabled by technological extensions.

It is a new dimension to understand the contemporary making and doings of materials science. Additionally, the study aims to enhance the current laboratory research by providing a story with Chinese characteristics and present the latest developments in the field.