At the Australian Synchrotron, our aim is to be a world-class facility supporting a wide base of users undertaking leading-edge scientific research. Our User Meeting in November 2010 is an excellent opportunity for existing and potential users to improve their knowledge of synchrotron techniques as well as share their expertise.
Development of the scientific program for the User Meeting is progressing well with confirmation of several eminent international and national guest speakers, including Dr Ulrich Schade (THz microspectroscopy expert, BESSY), Dr David Parsons (Adelaide Cystic Fibrosis Gene Therapy Group) and Associate Professor Matthew Wilce (Wilce Structural Biology Laboratory, Monash University). If you haven't already submitted your abstract, you'll have to be quick - the deadline for abstracts is 14 October 2010. An early bird registration discount is available until 31 October.
The Australian Synchrotron also supports many smaller meetings that enable users to learn more about synchrotron science and provide a venue for sharing their experiences. At a recent cultural heritage conservation workshop, synchrotron staff explained how our facilities can assist materials conservation projects, and users presented examples of synchrotron applications involving such diverse materials as ancient Egyptian jewellery, Aboriginal ochres, Mayan paint and plaster samples from the Honduras, 19th century historic documents and 20th century artworks.
We also support our user community through ongoing development of Australian Synchrotron capabilities and facilities; for example, construction has commenced on the next phase of the planned extension and upgrading of the imaging and medical beamline. Full beamtime will be available in 2011, with clinical research commencing in 2012. Another important user infrastructure program is the construction of the 50-room user accommodation block and other user facilities with a planned completion date in late 2011.
Discussions are currently underway with the state and federal governments about the introduction of the next set of beamlines that will help to satisfy the future demands of our user community.
The past year has seen us reach some key milestones in our development and the release of our 2010 Annual Report is an excellent opportunity to reflect on these achievements. I’m proud to say that the Australian Synchrotron is steadily moving closer to reaching its full potential, as evidenced by a significant increase in scientific publications arising from work undertaken here by users and staff. The publication of over 100 scientific papers so far this year has exceeded our expectations and is in keeping with overseas benchmarks. As our development plans unfold we will continue to provide facilities that enhance our region’s strong scientific performance.
Significant contributions by Australian Synchrotron staff and users helped to ensure the great success of our 2010 Open Day on 15 August, with attendance almost doubling that of previous years. This was an important opportunity to highlight the work of users and show the Australian public the value of the work undertaken here. The response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive and we thank the many users and synchrotron staff members who volunteered their time to help on the day.
Image: George Borg, Acting Director, Australian Synchrotron