Two months of effort led to the validation of the aforementioned paper. To validate the structure of the gels, I learned Confocal Microscopy and sample dye selection for similar imaging methods. For the rest of my time with the research group, I was responsible for imaging and characterizing other students' samples. For more images, both the image on the home page and the animated gif in the banner above are samples prepared and imaged during my time in the group.

Working with the salts presented its own challenges. The salt purity diminished with oxidation from air exposure; therefore, we had to conduct all experiments within a temperature-controlled Argon box. Additionally, the high melting point of salts meant we were unable to directly handle the specimen.

Our method initially called for photographs to be taken through the box window. This distorted the image and occupied the space immediately in front of the furnace - right where one would stand to conduct the experiment. Recognizing the need to adapt, we changed our experimental setup and pursued other options.