Workshop on Small-Angle X-ray Scattering and
Diffraction Studies in Structural Biology

Date: July 28-30, 2006
Location: Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory
Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, Menlo Park, CA



The significance of non-crystalline diffraction techniques has been rediscovered in recent years by an increasing number of structural biologists to complement high resolution structural studies by crystallography and NMR. Following the highly successful workshop in last October, the SSRL SMB Bio-SAXS/D team will host another workshop with strong emphasis on experimental aspects of non-crystalline diffraction techniques in biology. The three-day workshop will provide hands-on training on experimental techniques and software tutorial sessions primarily for solution x-ray scattering studies. Several shifts of beam time have been allocated for short data collection by workshop participants. The latest advances in x-ray scattering and diffraction studies on biological systems will be reported by several experts in a diverse spectrum of structural biology benefiting from non-crystalline diffraction studies. Also planned are presentations on complementary experimental approaches and modeling techniques. Participants will receive updates on current and future developments at SSRL BL4-2, the dedicated small angle scattering/ diffraction facility for structural biology, funded by NIH NCRR and DOE BER.

Due to the limited beam time availability, the data collection session is offered to a select group of participants, primarily based on feasibility and potential scientific merit in structural biology. High priority will be given to the participants without prior experience in solution x-ray scattering. All samples must clear safety review by the first day or of the workshop. Participants of the data collection sessions must complete the required safety training prior to their allocated beam time. Please contact Jackie Robleto to set up an appointment for the safety training. The participation in the software practical sessions requires that the participants use their own laptop computer (Windows PC preferred). Access to on-site computer will be limited.

The SSRL Structural Molecular Biology Program is supported by the Department of Energy, Office of Biological and Environmental Research, and by the National Institutes of Health, National Center for Research Resources, National Institute of General Medical Sciences.

Organizers: Hiro Tsuruta, Thomas Weiss, Marc Niebuhr (SSRL)

Inquires: Frances Liu fliu@slac.stanford.edu.

Safety Training: Jackie Robleto jackie@slac.stanford.edu

Registration: The fee for the workshop is $100 for 1 1/2 days of lectures, and 1 1/2 days of optional practical sessions, which include experimental data collection on BL 4-2 and computational analyses. Morning and afternoon refreshments and working lunchs will be provided the first two days of the workshop. Please register by July 14, 2006. Those interested in data collection should register by July 5, 2006. Accepted applicants will be notified on July 6, 2006.

Please make checks payable to Stanford University

Checks can be mailed to the following address:
Frances Liu
Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory
2575 Sand Hill Road, MS 69
Menlo Park, CA 94025
United States