The Electron Microscope Unit (EMU), provides a central microscopy service to all departments of the University of Cape Town, as well as to other universities, research institutions and private companies. Staff at the Unit are able to advise users on many aspects of electron microscopy, light microscopy and digital imaging and can take on joint research. The Unit offers a versatile, high quality range of instruments and techniques serving the needs of Engineering (Material and Chemical), Biological Science, Physical Science, Geoscience, Agricultural Science, Biotechnology and Medical Sciences.

The Unit is located on the first level (room 1.01) of the New Engineering Building on Madiba Circle on the Upper Campus, in premises that were purpose-built to house the electron microscopes and consisted of 660m², vibration free, magnetic field compensated, temperature– and humidity–controlled space.

The Centre for Imaging and Analysis is a key resource in the South African Structural Biology Initiative which is offering post-graduate degrees in Structural Biology jointly with others at UCT and the University of the Western Cape.