Non-Proprietary Access Routes

There are different modes of access to beamlines to ensure that the various needs of the users are met:

Direct Access

To provide regular access to individuals or groups.  Two calls per year will be issued with deadlines of 1 April and 1 October each for a six month period, these are October-March and April-September respectively. This is likely to be the principal mode of operation for physical science experiments.  Applications are made using the Online Proposals system.

Programme Access - Block Allocation Groups

Available to large groups or groups from different establishments who want to make more efficient use of the beamlines and to become familiar with beamline instrumentation.  The scheduling of the beamtime is groups to allow greater flexibility in the choice of projects and samples.

BAGs are operating on MX, I11 and I19 beamlines.  For further information please refer to the guidelines for life science and physical science.

From 2010, users should use the online proposal system for submission for new BAG applications.

For BAG proposals already awarded time, information will be requested directly from the User Office.

Programme Access - Long Term Research

Available for groups to support areas of research that require sustained and guaranteed access to beamtime for their success.  The proportion of beamtime allocated to this mode will be set at less than 25% of the total available for users.  The principal criterion for the award of programme access to beamtime is the quality of science proposed.  Programme Mode access will normally be available only to suitable research programmes that have been funded as result of peer review by a funding agency.

Long term research projects are operating on MX, I06, I15, I16, I18, I22, B16, I11, I12, I19, B23 and I07.  Full details are available in the guidelines.

Programme mode projects will last a maximum of two years.  There will be two calls for proposals per year with deadlines of 1 April and 1 October. 

From 2010, users should use the online proposal system for submission for new Programme Mode applications.

For Programme Mode proposals already awarded time, information will be requested directly from the User Office.

Rapid Access

To provide quick access to the beamlines.  Users must contact the Principal Beamline Scientist prior to submitting a proposal as some beamlines have a restricted amound of rapid access available.   Currently this access mode is available for the MX beamlines, I11, B16, B18, I18, I19, B22 and B23.  This process will involve the electronic review of applications by peer review panel and, if successful, beamtime will take place as soon as possible.  Applications for B16, I18, B22 and B23 should use the generic template.  All templates are found on the Online Proposal system.

Proprietary Access Routes

There is a fee for beamtime used and services provided.  Projects and results are confidential and available only to the customer.

Please refer enquiries to: Elizabeth Shotton, Industrial Liaison Manager, Tel: +44 (0) 1235 778797, email: industry@diamond.ac.uk