2nd Annual CLS Introduction to X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy and Microprobe Workshop (August 18-19, 2025): Registration Now Open

The 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 Overview

This 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 spectroscopy
• X-ray fluorescence imaging and microanalysis
• Data handling and analysis for XAS, including data processing, visualization, and interpretation
• Tours of CLS beamlines: BioXAS, SXRMB, and SGM

The 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 Participation

The 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 Activities

The workshop will include:

• Invited and contributed talks
• Hands-on data analysis sessions
• Beamline tours at the CLS
• A Q&A session with instructors
• A group photo
• A 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 Fees

• Graduate students, postdocs, and early-career researchers: $200
• Industry participants and professors: $350

These fees cover workshop materials, all meals during the event and access to all sessions.

Important Dates

• March 10 – Applications open
• May 15 – Application submission deadline
• June 1 – Notification of acceptance
• July 1 – Deadline for fee payment

Click on the link below to visit the official webpage for the workshop:

https://event.fourwaves.com/cls-xas-workshop/pages