In Pictures: Winning Images from the World of Science

The SFI Research Image competition celebrates images captured by SFI funded researchers during the course of their research. Shortlisted - Keith J. Flanagan & Marc Kielmann Crystal Dragon . The growth of crystals is both largely unique and beautiful. Often this is utilized in chemistry as a simple technique for purification or preparation of samples for analysis. However, the outcome of such an experiment can be unexpected as in this case, where the product is reminiscent of a mythological Chinese dragon. In ancient folklore, this creature symbolizes potent and auspicious power, which is why we took it as a lucky charm for future research. Here we merge artistry and synthesis to bring a new age of crystal art as seen under the microscope of unsuspecting students.