Exploring Science Opportunities at SESAME: Advancements in Research and Collaborations

Abstract:

SESAME (Synchrotron-light for Experimental Science and Applications in the Middle East) offers exciting prospects for scientific research and collaborative endeavors. This facility provides researchers with access to advanced experimental techniques, enabling them to delve into diverse scientific disciplines. By fostering international partnerships, SESAME opens the door to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations. During this session, esteemed experts will delve into the cutting-edge capabilities of SESAME, showcasing how its synchrotron radiation can propel research across various disciplines. From fundamental physics and materials science to life sciences and environmental studies, SESAME provides a versatile platform to address complex scientific challenges.

The facility utilizes a synchrotron accelerator to produce intense beams of X-ray light, infrared light, and ultraviolet light. These beams are then used to investigate a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physics, materials science, chemistry, biology, environmental science, and archaeology, among others. SESAME's cutting-edge capabilities allow researchers to study the structure and properties of materials at the atomic and molecular levels, contributing to significant advancements in various scientific fields.

Speaker's Profile:

After graduating in physics at the University of Trieste, Dr Andrea Lausi has gained extensive experience in the science programme of synchrotron light facilities having worked at Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A. in Trieste (Italy) since 1996. His recent positions at the Italian Laboratory included Head of the XPRESS beamline for high pressure studies, a position he held until he joined SESAME, Head of Elettra’s MCX Powder Diffraction beamline (2008-2015) and Head of the Laboratory’s Powder Diffraction beamline (2002-2008).

Since 2008 he has also overseen coordination between all the user beamlines and the machine group at Elettra. Dr Andrea also brings long-standing experience in science communication having been a member, since May 2013, of the Communication Task Force of Elettra, and the person responsible for the Elettra content at lightsources.org. Moreover, in April 2019 he was appointed Chair of the RICE (Research Infrastructure Communications and Engagement) working group of the ERF-AISBL (Association of European-Level Research Infrastructures Facilities). Andrea is currently the Scientific Director of SESAME.