2nd Annual CLS Introduction to X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy and Microprobe Workshop (August 18-19, 2025): Registration Now OpenThe Canadian Light Source (CLS) is now accepting registrations for the 2nd Annual Introduction to X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) and Microprobe Workshop, scheduled as a two-day, in-person workshop focused on applying XAS techniques within the theme of agriculture and food research. This workshop offers a focused and practical learning environment for researchers looking to build foundational knowledge in synchrotron-based techniques and apply them to real-world challenges.Workshop OverviewThis two-day program introduces participants to the fundamentals of X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy and microprobe techniques. It combines lectures, hands-on training sessions, beamline tours, and opportunities for direct engagement with experts in the field. Participants will gain exposure to:Principles and applications of X-ray spectroscopyX-ray fluorescence imaging and microanalysisData handling and analysis for XAS, including data processing, visualization, and interpretationTours of CLS beamlines: BioXAS, SXRMB, and SGMThe workshop content is framed around agricultural and food science applications, and attendees are encouraged to explore additional information from the Crop Development Centre at University of Saskatchewan (https://cdc.usask.ca/).Audience and ParticipationThe course is intended for graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, early-career scientists, industry professionals, and faculty who are new to or developing the use of XAS techniques within their research program. A maximum of 25 participants will be accepted to ensure meaningful interaction and access to hands-on training. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own datasets for the practicum sessions.Program Format and ActivitiesThe workshop will include:Invited and contributed talksHands-on data analysis sessionsBeamline tours at the CLSA Q&A session with instructorsA group photoA networking dinner reception on the first evening, held at the University Club at the University of Saskatchewan (https://uclub.usask.ca/)Catering for the event includes coffee, lunch, snacks for the two days, and the dinner reception on Day 1.Registration and FeesGraduate students, postdocs, and early-career researchers: $200Industry participants and professors: $350These fees cover workshop materials, all meals during the event and access to all sessions.Important DatesMarch 10 – Applications openMay 15 – Application submission deadlineJune 1 – Notification of acceptanceJuly 1 – Deadline for fee paymentClick on the link below to visit the official webpage for the workshop:https://event.fourwaves.com/cls-xas-workshop/pages

The 4th International Pan American Light Sources for Agriculture (PALSA 2025) meeting is scheduled to take place from August 20 to 22, 2025, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Click on the link below to visit the official webpage for the conference:PALSA 2025 is a hybrid event that will feature in-person sessions as well as live-streamed academic talks for virtual attendees. The central theme for PALSA 2025 is "Advancing Sustainable Agriculture and Food Research". The conference will focus on how synchrotron-based research can be applied to address current challenges in agriculture and food systems.Conference ObjectivesThe primary objective of PALSA 2025 is to raise awareness about the role of synchrotron light sources in agricultural research. The event is also intended to promote the adoption of advanced imaging and analytical techniques among researchers and industry professionals by showcasing examples of leading-edge research in this area.Background and HistoryThe PALSA series began in 2019, with the first event hosted by the Canadian Light Source (CLS) in collaboration with the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS) in the United States and the Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory (LNLS). Subsequent meetings have rotated among these three light source facilities, with PALSA 2021 hosted by LNLS and PALSA 2023 by CHESS.Agriculture and Synchrotron ResearchCanada is recognized as one of the major global producers of agricultural products. As demands for higher crop yields and global food security increase, research in agriculture is being enhanced through the use of synchrotron-based tools. The Canadian Light Source has prioritized agricultural science due to its facility's capabilities, resident expertise, and location near major agricultural research institutions.Important Dates for the PALSA 2025January 15, 2025 – Registration opensMarch 31, 2025 – Deadline for full consideration of abstracts (oral and poster)June 15, 2025 – Early bird registration deadlineJuly 15, 2025 – Deadline for in-person registration and poster-only submissionsAugust 20, 2025 – Final deadline for virtual attendance registrationRegistration Fees (All in CAD)Academic/Government: $555 (early), $721.50 (late)Student/Postdoc: $333Industry: $832.50Virtual Attendance Only: $111Banquet (optional): $111VenueThe main conference venue is Remai Modern, located in the River Landing area of downtown Saskatoon.Click on the link below to visit the official webpage for the PALSA 2025 conference:https://event.fourwaves.com/palsa-2025/pagesSatellite Workshop: XAS and MicroprobePreceding the main conference, a satellite workshop titled “Introduction to X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) and Microprobe” will be held on August 18 and 19, 2025. The workshop is designed as a two-day course focusing on agriculture and food-related applications of XAS and X-ray fluorescence imaging technique. It includes lectures, Q&A sessions, and hands-on training in data processing and interpretation. Participants will also have the opportunity to tour several beamlines at the CLS. The course is suitable for early-stage and intermediate users of XAS. Visit the link below to get more details about the XAS and Microprobe workshop schedule and registration process:https://event.fourwaves.com/cls-xas-workshop/pages

Associate Scientist (BioXAS Imaging) - Canadian Light Source Inc. (northstarats.com)

Distribution of micronutrients in Aborg Oat (Avena sativa L.) using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence imaging in micro-mode. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.135661

The BioXAS sector was experiencing vacuum issues during the previous cycle. Front End mask was replaced during the spring shut-down.

Data of whole body mouse (model organism) section were collected in Macro-mode at 100 micron resolution and 60 ms dwell time.

The installed air conditioning system will provide the optimum temperature in the enclosures aiding beam stability over time.

The constructed wall provides now a separate space for the Spectroscopy and Imaging beamline, respectively.

BioXAS Imaging Macro and Micro resolution modes have entered the General User phase and accepting proposals.

XRF images were collected in macro-mode at 40 μm resolution and 250 ms dwell time. Distribution of K (green), Cu (blue) and Fe (red) are presented.

Our first BioXAS-Imaging user at the beamline collected data in micro-mode to investigate phytoremediation potential of plants grown at mining impacted site.

XRF images representing Ca, Zn, Hg and S distribution in zebrafish. Data were collected as fly scan in micro-mode at 5 μm resolution.

Copper uptake in brown algae was studied using fly scan XRF imaging in Macro-mode at 100 μm resolution and 50 ms.

Distribution of Mn and Zn in dry leaves collected in macro-mode at 20, 50 and 150 um resolutions. 

Although dry leaves could depict an end, but for us, this image meant a beginning, a start to contribute to science and knowledge.