User Office
The Necsa User Office coordinates access to the Beam Line Centre’s neutron and X-ray facilities. It assists users with calls for proposals, beam-time applications, scheduling and facility-access requirements.
How to Apply for Beam Time
- Contact the relevant instrument scientist to confirm project feasibility and instrument availability.
- Download the latest Beam Time Request Form from here.
- Complete the Beam Time Request Form in collaboration with the relevant instrument scientist
- Submit the completed document to UserOffice@necsa.co.za, cc’ing the responsible instrument scientist
Applications should be concise but comprehensive and must not exceed three pages. Supporting figures, sample images or results from previous research may be included at the end of the application.
South African applicants must submit an electronic copy of their identity document. International applicants must submit an electronic copy of their passport approximately eight weeks before the intended visit.
Beam time is not guaranteed. Technical or operational difficulties may result in experiments being postponed or cancelled. Necsa will make reasonable efforts to minimise downtime and, where possible, accommodate lost beam time.
MIXRAD Calls for Proposals
Calls for proposals for the Micro-focus X-ray Radiography and Tomography facility (MIXRAD) are announced through the RADTOM USER mailing list. To join or leave the mailing list, email RadTom@necsa.co.za.
The indicative beam-time schedule is:
Period/Year | Beam Time Period: | Call Open on: | Proposal Deadline: | Final Allocated Beam Time: |
1/YY | 1 Jan – 30 April | 1 Dec previous year | 31 Dec previous year | Mid-Jan |
2/YY | 1 May – 31 Aug | 1 Apr | 30 Apr | Mid-May |
3/YY | 1 Sep – 31 Dec | 1 Aug | 31 Aug | Mid-Sep |
These dates may change because of operational or unforeseen circumstances. Applicants should consult the relevant call for proposals for confirmed dates.
Proof-of-Principle Scans: Applicants who are uncertain whether MIXRAD is suitable for their samples may request one preliminary proof-of-principle scan before submitting a proposal. This scan is provided at no cost and is recommended for first-time users. Contact RadTom@necsa.co.za in advance to discuss the proposed scan.
Other Instruments – Continuous call
Applications for other Beam Line Centre instruments may be submitted throughout the year. Contact the relevant instrument scientist to discuss instrument availability, project feasibility and sample requirements.
Enquiries
For general beam-time enquiries, contact UserOffice@necsa.co.za
