The DSTI–NRF Centre for High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (CHRTEM) at Nelson Mandela University proudly celebrates 15 years of advancing aberration-corrected electron microscopy in Africa. Since its establishment in 2011, the Centre has become a cornerstone of national research infrastructure, enabling world-class scientific discoveries, supporting hundreds of postgraduate students, fostering international collaborations, and developing the next generation of microscopy researchers. To mark this important milestone, CHRTEM will host a series of events from 12–15 October 2026, bringing together leading scientists, industry partners, government representatives, alumni and the broader microscopy community.

The celebration begins with a two-day International Scientific Workshop on 12 and 13 October, entitled Recent Advances and Future Prospects in the Applications of Aberration-Corrected TEM. The workshop will feature internationally renowned keynote speakers, invited presentations, student poster sessions and discussions covering the latest developments in atomic-resolution electron microscopy, quantitative and data-driven imaging, automation, emerging instrumentation and the future of advanced microscopy. The programme brings together researchers, students, and industry partners to exchange ideas, build collaborations, and explore the next generation of microscopy technologies.

On the morning of 14 October, the focus shifts to a Special Anniversary Symposium in collaboration with the DSTI and NRF, celebrating fifteen years of scientific excellence and reflecting on the impact of CHRTEM on research and innovation in South Africa and across the African continent. The symposium will showcase landmark scientific achievements enabled by the Centre, highlight the evolution of advanced microscopy over the past decade and a half, and provide a vision for the future of national research infrastructure and emerging microscopy capabilities.

The celebrations will conclude with a 15th Anniversary Gala Dinner on the evening of 14 October, bringing together distinguished guests from academia, government, funding agencies and industry. The gala provides an opportunity to celebrate the Centre's achievements, recognise the partnerships that have contributed to its success, reconnect with alumni and collaborators, and look ahead to the next chapter of CHRTEM's contribution to science, innovation and human capital development in Africa.

Attendance at the CHRTEM 15-Year Anniversary celebrations is by invitation only. Guests are warmly welcomed to join us for this unique occasion, celebrating fifteen years of excellence in aberration-corrected electron microscopy in Africa. Whether attending the International Scientific Workshop, the Special Anniversary Symposium, the Gala Dinner, or the full programme, participants can look forward to an inspiring week of scientific exchange, collaboration, networking and celebration as we reflect on the Centre's achievements and look ahead to the future of advanced microscopy.

Summary of events:
 
Recent Advances and Future Prospects in the Applications of Aberration-Corrected TEM (Scientific Workshop)
Date: 12-13 October 2026
Time: 9am to 4pm
Venue: Science Centre, Ocean Sciences Campus
 
Special Anniversary Symposium
Date: 14 October
Time: 9am to 1pm
Venue: Science Centre, Ocean Sciences Campus

Details: Tea Break and Lunch will be provided. Interested guests will be allowed to tour the CHRTEM facilities at 1pm.
 
15th Anniversary Gala Dinner
Date: 14 October
Time: 5.30 (for 6pm)
Venue: Science Centre, Ocean Sciences Campus

Dress Code: Semi-Formal

(Further details regarding events will be communicated to all registered guests)