In May the group performed two HAXPES beamtimes at beamlines I09 (Diamond Light Source) and P22 (PETRA III, DESY).

At the beginning of May, Nick, Elisabeth and Anna, spent time at P22 performing two back-to-back beamtimes. The experiments focused on the continuation of our very productive exploration of new MAX phases from Prof Christina Birkel’s group at Arizona State University and on systematic measurements on mixed post-transition metal oxides. In addition, we were able to collect data on several recently synthesised oxide thin films from our own efforts in sol-gel synthesis. Dr Volkmar Kollar was our local contact for the experiment providing both strong scientific and cheerful emotional support throughout. Obviously we also used the fantastic automation available at P22 to enjoy a slice of cake and coffee in the sunshine in the nearby park.

Just after this, we had another beamtime at I09 in mid-May, which was attended by Emma, Mahathee, Ann, and Anna. We measured some beautiful GeO2 thin films as well as a whole host of other post-transition metal oxide films. Excitingly this was also Emma’s and Mahathee’s first beamtime and both of them got to collect data on their own samples. Dr Pardeep Kumar Thakur was our ever competent and entertaining local contact.