Manipulator for microscopy sample preparation and methods for making and use thereof

A manipulator system for handling micron-scale samples, the system comprising:

• a probe including
• an electrically conductive surface,
• a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end having a truncated conical shape with a generally flat face, the face having a diameter along a minor axis of less than about 50 μm, and
• a bore extending from the proximal end to the face;
• a probe holder engaged with the proximal end of the probe and including a first inlet in fluid communication with the bore;
• a mechanical positioner configured to cause and control micron-scale movements of the probe holder;
• and
• a source of sub-ambient pressure coupled to the inlet.

A method for microscopy inspection, comprising:

• forming a free-standing membrane;
• positioning a probe proximate to the membrane, the probe including
• an electrically conductive surface,
• a distal end having a truncated conical shape with a generally flat face, the face having a diameter along a minor axis of less than about 50 μm,
• a bore extending from the proximal end to the face, and
• a probe holder engaged with the proximal end of the probe and including a first inlet in fluid communication with the bore;
• drawing a vacuum through the bore to draw the membrane to the face;
• placing the membrane on a sample support;
• and
• inspecting the membrane with a microscope.