News - SOLARIS National Synchrotron Radiation Centre - Jagiellonian University

SOLARIS Centre the organiser of the Crosscarpatian Synchrotron School (CSS2024)

The first edition of the Crosscarpatian Synchrotron School (CSS2024) was held at the SOLARIS Centre from 10 to 14 June 2024. The school was aimed at students, doctoral candidates, and senior researchers with little or no experience in the field of synchrotron radiation. The program included theoretical introductions with a particular focus on the applications of synchrotron research in various fields, as well as practical workshops on experimental lines. Each participant could choose two stations where they received comprehensive training in experiment design, sample preparation, measurements, and data processing.

For five intensive days, the SOLARIS Centre opened its doors to the participants of the synchrotron school, giving young scientists a unique opportunity to work on the most advanced beamlines: DEMETER, PIRX, URANOS, PHELIX, CIRI, POLYX, and ASTRA, as well as the cryo-electron microscopy infrastructure CRYO-EM.

- The event was attended by 37 highly motivated scientists, selected from 100 applications from various countries. Participants received comprehensive theoretical and practical training in techniques of their choice and gained valuable tips on how to apply for research time and prepare proposals. The workshops sparked many valuable discussions that are likely to lead to new scientific collaborations and research ideas in the future - said Dr. Joanna Sławek, the chair of the organizing committee.

The aim of this event was not only to develop the skills and knowledge of the participants but also to counteract brain drain, the migration of talented scientists to countries with more developed research infrastructure. A synchrotron is a powerful research tool that allows for advanced studies in many fields of science, such as physics, chemistry, biology, and even archaeology. Unfortunately, in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, access to such facilities is limited, which often prompts young scientists to seek opportunities abroad. The Synchrotron School was organized with the intention of changing this situation. Participants had the opportunity to gain invaluable experience working with synchrotrons, learn new research techniques, and network with experts in the field.