Overview
The West Coast Soft and Tender X-ray Synchrotron Imaging and Spectroscopy Workshop for Earth and Environmental Sciences will be held at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) on November 10–12, 2026.
Over three days, beamline scientists from the Advanced Light Source (ALS) and Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) will guide participants through the workflow of synchrotron-based spectro-microscopy, from technique fundamentals to hands-on data acquisition and processing.
Generous partial support for this workshop is provided by ALS, SSRL, and the NSF-SEES program supporting synchrotron studies within Earth and Environmental Sciences.
Workshop Program
Day 1 — Fundamental Theory
Overview lectures introducing synchrotron microscopy and spectroscopy techniques and the complementary capabilities of ALS (STXM, COSMIC; soft and tender X-rays for organic and trace metals, 0.27–2.5 keV) and SSRL (microfocus XRF imaging and XANES, 2–5 keV).
Day 2 — Hands-on Data Acquisition at SSRL
Participants will collect XRF imaging and XAS data on Earth and environmental samples at SSRL beamlines, gaining practical experience with sample handling, beamline operation, and measurement strategy.
Day 3 — Data Processing Tutorials
Guided tutorials on the analysis of STXM and XRF/XANES datasets, including image analysis and spectra deconvolution. Several case studies will be showcased, such as apatite biomineralization, in situ oxidation kinetics of Fe-sulfide minerals, and the effects of wildfire ash on soil biogeochemistry.
Workshop Logistics
- Dates: November 10–12, 2026
- Location: Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL)
- Application Deadline: August 3, 2026
- Registration Fee: $50 (TBD)
How to Apply
Applications will be submitted through a SLAC-hosted application form. The application link will be posted here when available.
Travel and Participant Support
Given the hands-on nature of this workshop, we can accommodate up to 15 participants.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided throughout the workshop. To help reduce barriers to participation, travel and lodging support will be available for eligible participants, with support provided as reimbursement for qualifying expenses and details shared upon acceptance.