Survey calls on scientific input
2 Jun 2014
Industry survey asks UK researchers to identify future research facility requirements.
The Research Councils UK (RCUK) survey is asking researchers from across a wide range of the physical and life sciences to provide their views on the future development of the country’s large scale research facilities by 16th June.
The (RCUK) survey, which was launched on Friday, seeks scientific advice on the future development of the Central Laser Facility, Diamond Light Source and ISIS Neutron Source.
The survey is open to any past or current facility users, as well as those scientists who anticipate using the facilities in the next five years.
RCUK large facilities steering group chairman Colin Miles said: “By taking part in this survey scientists can help make sure this happens and influence the development of these crucial facilities. We are encouraging as many researchers as possible to take part.”
Research facilities:
Located at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, at the Harwell Oxford campus, the three facilities provide access for scientists from a wide range of research disciplines.
Central Laser Facility
The Central Laser Facility encompassing compact lasers that can pinpoint individual particles and high-power installations that can recreate conditions found inside stars. This facility accelerates sub-atomic particles, probes chemical reactions and delves deep into the biochemical and biophysical processes that make life possible.
Diamond Light Source
Diamond produces X-ray, infrared and ultra-violet beams, to enable scientists and engineers to probe deep into the basic structure of matter and materials, answering fundamental questions about everything from the building blocks of life to the origin of our planet. Synchrotron light is an indispensable tool in many research areas including physics, chemistry, materials science and crystallography. In addition, synchrotron light is increasingly being exploited by new communities such as medicine, geological and environmental studies, structural genomics and archaeology.
ISIS
ISIS uses the technique of neutron scattering to examine where atoms are and how they are moving. By studying how materials work at the atomic level, we can better understand their every-day properties - and so make new materials tailor-made for particular uses. ISIS also produces muons for use in a similar way, providing additional information on how materials work at the atomic scale.
