Microscopy and Microanalysis 2006 will be the premiere meeting of the year for scientists and technologists interested in learning about the latest advances in applications and techniques for the analysis of a broad range of materials in the biological and physical sciences, as well as nano- and bio-technology. M&M-2006 will again host the largest commercial exhibition of microscopy and microanalysis equipment and related accessories in the world. In addition to the usual sponsoring societies, the Microscopy Society of America (MSA), and the Microbeam Analysis Society (MAS), the International Metallographic Society (IMS) will again be a co-sponsoring society for the meeting. We are also fortunate that the Microscopical Society of Canada/Société de Microscopie du Canada (MSC/SMC) will also be co-sponsoring the meeting this year. The M&M-2006 Executive Program Committee, comprised of co-chairs from each of the sponsoring societies, has put together a comprehensive scientific program that will encompass the state-of-the art in microscopy and microanalysis in 2006, and we look forward to welcoming you to Navy Pier!