Facility Day on Particle Characterisation

The Sediment, Soil and Pollutant Analysis Laboratory in the Sorby Lab is collaborating with the School of Earth, Environment and Sustainability’s XRD Facility to run a one-day workshop on particle characterisation on 23 April 2026. The workshop is aimed at other Research Technical Professionals (RTPs), and applications from RTPs will be prioritised.

Applications from other researchers will be accepted if places remain. Places are fully funded by the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy, including travel and accommodation for applicants from any HE Institution in the UK.

We acknowledge the EPSRC-funded APP15481: Technology Specialists Network: Research Technical Professionals, Opportunities, Knowledge and Skills (TSN ROKS) project for funding this work.

This facility day introduces a cutting-edge technique combining XRD with particle size and shape analysis to advance atmospheric science. Attendees will explore hands-on workshops featuring cutting-edge multidisciplinary research. This workshop is aimed at RTPs who have experience with one or both techniques, although it centres on atmospheric science, those from other disciplines are welcome to attend.

Objective 1– to share a novel sample analysis technique that combines XRD and particle size and shape with other RTPs. This workshop will focus on how combining their analysis has led to developments in atmospheric science.

Objective 2 – to co-create a national group of particle characterisation RTPs. This group would share best practices, skills, and networking activities going forward.

Agenda:

10-10:30 – Arrival, registration, refreshments, networking

10:30-12 – Workshop 1 - the group will be split into two, with each group completing both hands-on workshops.

12-1– Lunch & networking

1-2:30 – Workshop 2

2:30-4 – Refreshments, seminar by Prof Ben Murray covering recent advances in atmospheric sciences made by his team, networking.

To apply, please complete the form by 19 March 2026. If you have any questions, please email the lead host, Lesley Neve ([email protected]).