Background 

Bertrand Lézé is a Chief Technician in the Structural Imaging Platform within the Faculty of Science at the University of East Anglia, where he is responsible for the operation and support of the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Sample preparation is a key aspect in achieving the best possible SEM images and Bertrand has been developing his skills in preparing rock thin sections.  

Engagement with T-PIKE 

Bertrand applied for T-PIKE funding to attend the Geo-Technologists Symposium 2025 at Trinity College Dublin. The event brought together highly skilled technical staff from across the higher education sector with key manufacturers of equipment and consumables, and provided an opportunity to share knowledge and build professional networks. Through the event, Bertrand was able to access new expertise and experience. Engaging with others working in similar technical environments allowed him to discuss challenges, get advice, and gain confidence in applying new techniques. 

Outcomes 

Attending the symposium has influenced how Bertrand approaches his technical practice. He gained practical tips and advice that he is now using to improve his sample preparation protocols. He is also continuing conversations with colleagues he met at the event, drawing on their experience as he develops and refines his approach to producing thin sections in his lab. 

The symposium introduced Bertrand to new methods, and he has since moved from mechanical grinding to hand grinding techniques, an approach that has already led to improvements in results. 

Bertrand has begun sharing this learning by working with a lecturer who wanted to be trained to prepare her own samples. He is also preparing to support an undergraduate student, guiding them through the preparation of samples collected for a summer project. 

Key takeaways 

Through support from T-PIKE, Bertrand has been able to:  

  • Develop and refine technical skills through peer learning
  • Build professional networks with technical colleagues
  • Increase confidence in applying and sharing new techniques 

Bertrand’s experience demonstrates that technical staff can:  

  • Benefit significantly from professional development opportunities
  • Play a key role in sharing expertise within their institutions
  • Enhance research and teaching through continual skills development 

 

“Attending the symposium boosted my confidence. I can already see an increase in my ability to provide researchers and students with better quality thin sections.”

Bertrand Lézé, UEA