Above: Magnetic pair distribution function [mPDF] analysis has recently emerged as a powerful tool for studying short-range magnetism 

The Spring 2024 edition of RefleXions showcases an image by Sabrina Hatt and Benjamin Frandsen, illustrating their work on Magnetic Pair Distribution Function (mPDF) analysis. "Short-range spin correlations, such as the local parallel spin alignment in the ferromagnetic regions visible in the figure, can play a crucial role in determining macroscopic material properties, in addition to providing important clues about the fundamental physics of materials exhibiting complex magnetic behaviors. Magnetic pair distribution function (mPDF) analysis has recently emerged as a powerful tool for studying short-range magnetism. Through Fourier transformation of magnetic diffuse scattering patterns obtained from neutron scattering experiments, mPDF analysis reveals local spin correlations directly in real space, lending unique insights into short-range magnetic structure."  

2024 ACA Fellows Announced

We are delighted to announce the Class of 2024 ACA Fellows! This distinguished group of scientists has been recognized for their exceptional contributions to the field of structural science, their unwavering commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and their incredible service to the ACA. Their pioneering research, dedication to education, and active participation in the ACA have significantly impacted our discipline. Please join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals and their achievements, as we honor their remarkable work and dedication to the advancement of structural science - congratulations to the 2024 ACA Fellows!

 


June/July AVL Contest  

Data collection and data analysis for single crystal, cryoEM, NMR, pair distribution analysis, or powder diffraction techniques  Details about the contest can be found on the AVL page.

All ACA Members are invited to submit videos related to the topic below:

"Determining Atomic Structures"  

Videos can be as simple as a few minutes of talking over a slide presentation, or as complex as a molecular animation.  Submissions entered before July 31, 2024 will receive a $100 (USD) prize.  The top two videos will receive $500 (USD)  award.

 


Save the Date!

Mark your calendars for next year's ACA annual meeting from July 18 – 23, 2025 at the Westin Chicago Lombard (70 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard, IL 60148) and make sure to join us for a trip down memory lane as we celebrate the 75th annual meeting and gather to hear another round of inspiring presentations, collaborative discussions, and groundbreaking discoveries. Stay tuned for more details and join us in continuing to advance the field of structural science!

 

A Golden Future for Structural Science

The ACA Annual Meeting took place earlier this month, bringing together our vibrant community of structural scientists and researchers. We extend a warm thank you to all attendees and members who contributed to making this event a success and we invite everyone to view the abstracts and posters from this year’s meeting, which are now available online.

To support our commitment to early career scientists, the ACA annual meeting features various events designed to showcase research, foster networking, and provide enriching experiences. Congratulations to all our travel grant recipients, Etter Student Lecturer Award winners, and Three Minute Thesis champions!

 


Call for Volunteers!

Volunteering for the ACA offers numerous benefits including the opportunity to contribute actively to the field's advancement, network with professionals, and develop valuable skills such as leadership and communication. Volunteering also provides a sense of fulfillment and pride in supporting a community dedicated to advancing science and the ACA needs YOU!

The ACA is currently looking for volunteers for the following roles:

RefleXions:  We are currently seeking an interested member to be an editor of our quarterly newsletter.  More information can be provided to seriously interested candidates but this position would be responsible for collecting, organizing and designing two issues per year.  Interested?  Let us know!

History Portal: The History Portal is a well established initiative of the ACA and is incredibly important to our membership.  We are currently seeking a member interested in the history of the ACA, the history of structural science and interest in preserving current people and events for the future.  Interested?  Let us know!