The two-day event “AP-XPS at SOLARIS: Defining Research Directions”, held on 24–25 November, brought together the scientific community to explore current developments and future opportunities in Ambient Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (AP-XPS). The meeting aimed not only to introduce participants to the fundamental principles and experimental possibilities of AP-XPS, but also to present the vision and planned capabilities of the upcoming Near-Ambient Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (NAP-XPS) endstation at the SOLARIS synchrotron. This new endstation will enable investigations of solid–gas interfaces using soft X-rays, opening significant new possibilities for research in catalysis, surface chemistry, and environmental science.

We have completed the first year of the “Akademia Skilla” programme – and the results achieved so far are a source of great pride. We introduce young people to the world of modern laboratories and scientific research, present the practical side of the natural sciences, and inspire them to consider future careers in high-technology fields. Following a year of intensive activities, we are already observing tangible outcomes: a substantial part of the planned educational and outreach objectives has been accomplished, and “Akademia Skilla” is increasingly stimulating scientific curiosity among participants aged 12–19. The project is funded by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education and implemented by the SOLARIS National Synchrotron Radiation Centre under its full title: “Akademia Skilla – an adventure for young people inspiring them to pursue professional careers in the field of modern science”.

Since October, we have been running a new programme dedicated to young Polish researchers. Its aim is to encourage them to make use of the modern research infrastructure at NCPS SOLARIS JU and to provide opportunities to gain practical experience with experimental techniques based on synchrotron radiation and cryo-electron microscopy.

On 7 November 2025, the Astronomical Observatory of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Piwnice near Toruń hosted the inaugural Polish Dual Use Tech Hub Meeting – the first initiative of its kind in Europe dedicated to integrating Polish and European research infrastructures for civil security and defence. The objective of the event was to initiate coordinated efforts among scientific communities representing fields such as radio astronomy, synchrotron research, and quantum communication, bringing together their combined potential in the development of dual-use materials and technologies.

From 19 to 21 November, representatives of the SOLARIS Centre are taking part in the 1st National Congress “Science for Business”, held at EXPO XXI in Warsaw. It is the largest event in Poland dedicated to cooperation between the scientific community, industry and public administration. The Congress brings together representatives of research institutes, universities, start-ups, technology companies, as well as representatives of state bodies responsible for shaping innovation policy.