Solution scattering from biological macromolecules

Overview

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Course overview

This course consists of two parts: a virtual module and an on-site module.

The series of online lectures will take place from 6 – 10 October 2025. In addition to this, a small number of selected students that have completed the virtual module will be offered to take part in the practical component of this course that will take place in Hamburg from 17-21 November, 2025. For the other students we will offer the possibility to collect data remotely.

We encourage advanced PhD students, postdocs and junior researchers to apply.

The virtual module lectures will cover the basics of SAXS/SANS, instrumentation, data collection, modelling techniques and complementary use with other methods. A self-paced practical tutorial accompanied with a SASQUEST challenge will be provided and all students are encourage to participate in these exercises. The material will cover basic and advanced SAXS data processing steps.

In the on-site module, there will be 2 tracks offered focusing on different aspects of SAXS data collection. Applicants will be able to select a preferred track during motivation letter submission.

Students that are not taking part in the on-site module will be able to sign-up for small online discussion groups. These discussion groups will be led by one of the course speakers/tutors and you will be given the chance to discuss your own data/SAXS experiments with your peers.

Audience

The course is aimed at young biochemists/biophysicists and researchers active in related structural methods with little or no experience in solution scattering.

The virtual module is aimed at early career scientists interested in expanding their knowledge in SAXS.

On-site track 1: X-ray beamline operation is aimed at advanced pre-docs/early-stage postdocs interested in working with synchrotron radiation and technical aspects of scattering experiments. During the practical, you will learn different steps for commissioning and calibrating a beamline, how to streamline workflows, and what to consider for data collection and management.

On-site track 2: sample preparation and optimization for SAXS is aimed at pre-doctoral and postdoctoral fellows with a background and/or an interest in biochemistry. In this track, we will be looking at best practices in sample preparation and data collection as well as various tools for data quality assessment. Students are encouraged to bring their own samples.

Modules/resources

• SAXS data collection
• Data processing
• Basic analysis
• Novel SAXS data analysis methods
• Integrative structural biology
• Reporting and quality assessment

Learning outcomes

During the virtual module of the course, we will take a look at all essential steps of SAXS data analysis, from applying for beamtime, collecting, processing, and analysing SAXS data, as well as proper reporting and quality assessment.

At the on-site module, deeper insights into beamline operation or optimization of measurements can be gained.

What past participants say about the course

“Participating in the EMBL course on “Solution Scattering from Biological Macromolecules” was a delightful experience, with its intimate setting enabling personalized discussions and the well-organized workshop offering ample opportunities for in-depth conversations and data analysis support. Meeting the BioSAXS group was a particular highlight, as their expertise and approachability made the entire experience both educational and enjoyable.” – Jaka Snoj, Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia

“At the EMBL course, a distinguished team of experts and beamline scientists provides an invaluable toolbox for SAXS data analysis. From Ab initio to Hybrid models, this comprehensive course offers a unique opportunity for both newcomers to scattering and individuals like myself, who have recently ventured into the study of biomacromolecules through scattering techniques.” – Davide Schirone, Malmö University, Sweden

Sponsors

Sponsorship opportunities

We offer a variety of event sponsoring possibilities, with the flexibility to select a set sponsorship package or combine individual sponsorship options to suit your event budget. Discounts are available for companies sponsoring multiple events at EMBL Heidelberg. View other conferences, or contact sponsorship@embl.de for further information.

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