Neutron Sciences Directorate

Overview

The SNS-HFIR User Group Executive Committee (SHUG EC) is hosting a new series, the SHUG Breakthrough Symposia.

The goal is to expand the user base at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) and High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). These facilities currently host hundreds of scientists every year who use neutrons in their research to solve and understand cutting-edge problems in their field. Many researchers are not aware of how neutrons can help them with their science, and these symposia will help bridge the gap between non-neutron and neutron experts by hosting focused discussions within specific fields.

Each symposium will host a mix of senior and early-career researchers who utilize different scientific techniques to carry out their goals. The format is virtual, and all are welcome to attend, although we do ask you to register in advance. The registration is free and open for everyone. Any questions or comments can be directed to the SHUG EC at shug-ec@email.ornl.gov.

Upcoming Symposia

• High Entropy Alloys and Oxides - Date: TBD

Past Symposia

• Advancing Battery Research: Neutron Scattering and Other Approaches - August 22, 2023
  The topic for this virtual event was energy storage materials with an emphasis on how neutron scattering can play a role in solving complex problems facing the field. The two-hour symposium was focused on showcasing the abilities of neutron scattering, discussing some of the most notable research directions and challenges in energy storage systems, and how the advances of neutron scattering techniques can help address these problems. The speakers provided a practical background and context for prospective users of the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) and the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) facilities and discussed the science needs from the user community. The invited speakers were Shirley Meng (University of Chicago), Jue Liu (Oak Ridge National Laboratory), Kimberly See (Caltech), and David Kwabi (University of Michigan, Ann Arbor).
  
  
   
• Neutron Scattering for Framework Materials  - October 18, 2022
  The first symposium topic was on Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and the related porous crystalline materials such as zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs). This two-hour symposium showcased the abilities of neutron scattering, discussed the possibilities of using neutrons for as-yet unsolved problems, and provided a practical background and context for prospective users.  The speakers included Joe Zhou (Texas A&M University), Craig Brown (NIST Center for Neutron Research), Mercedes Taylor (University of Maryland, College Park), and Hayden Evans (NIST Center for Neutron Research).