In a specialized facility in Maryland, a powerful tool is helping scientists see the invisible and solve some of technology's toughest puzzles.
31st Annual Summer School | NIST, Maryland
At the heart of many scientific breakthroughs—from longer-lasting batteries to new drug-delivery systems—lies a fundamental need to understand what materials are like on the inside. Every summer, a select group of researchers gathers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to master a powerful technique that makes this possible: neutron scattering3 .
The Center for High Resolution Neutron Scattering (CHRNS) hosts a dedicated summer school, now in its 31st year, to train the next generation of scientists. This year, the school is devoted entirely to methods and applications of neutron spectroscopy, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to learn how to use neutron probes to investigate current research topics1 3 .
Neutrons, the subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom, possess unique properties that make them exceptional tools for scientific discovery. Because they have no electrical charge, they can penetrate deep into materials without being disrupted by electrons. This allows them to reveal the internal structure and dynamics of substances at the atomic and molecular level6 .
Neutrons can pinpoint the positions of light atoms, like hydrogen, which are often invisible to other techniques such as X-rays. This is crucial for studying materials like hydrogen-storage tanks for clean energy and biological membranes that form the basis of life6 .
The applications of neutron scattering are as diverse as the fields of science and engineering themselves. The NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR), where the summer school is held, is a user facility that supports research for industry, universities, and government agencies6 .
Probes atomic-level structure to help design materials that store more energy and conduct electricity with less loss.
Reveals how the arrangement of molecules affects material properties like strength, flexibility, and flow.
Helps develop new materials for more efficient solar energy conversion and higher-density data storage.
Maps the structure of complex biological systems to inform the design of new medications and drug-delivery mechanisms.
For the 35 students accepted into the program, the week is an intensive immersion into the world of neutron scattering. The school deliberately limits attendance to ensure each participant receives focused instruction and meaningful hands-on experience with the world-class instrumentation at the NCNR1 .
The curriculum is carefully designed to build knowledge from the ground up. Mornings are typically filled with lectures that cover the fundamental principles of neutron scattering and spectroscopy.
These sessions provide the theoretical foundation that students then apply in the afternoons during practical, hands-on training sessions1 .
This direct interaction with the instruments—learning how to prepare samples, collect data, and begin analysis—is what sets the summer school apart. It bridges the gap between textbook learning and the real-world skills needed to conduct independent research.
Only 35 students are accepted to ensure focused instruction and meaningful hands-on experience1 .
| Technique | Primary Function | Example Application |
|---|---|---|
| Neutron Spectroscopy | Measures the motion and dynamics of atoms and molecules. | Studying atomic vibrations in a new catalyst to understand its efficiency. |
| Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) | Probes the large-scale structure of materials (1-100 nanometers). | Determining the shape and size of proteins in a solution8 . |
| Neutron Reflectometry | Studies the structure of thin films and layered materials. | Analyzing the layers within a microchip or a protective coating8 . |
The 2025 school focuses specifically on neutron spectroscopy, while past schools have covered other powerful techniques like SANS and neutron reflectometry, giving students a comprehensive toolkit for their future research8 .
The CHRNS summer school is more than just a training course; it is an investment in the scientific infrastructure of the United States. By restricting attendance to applicants from North American institutions, the program actively builds a skilled domestic research community capable of pushing the boundaries of materials science, chemistry, and physics1 3 .
This mission aligns with the broader educational efforts of NIST, which offers programs for learners at every stage:
The neutron scattering summer school fills a critical niche in this ecosystem, training specialists who will go on to drive innovation in academia, national laboratories, and US industry.
The research enabled by neutron scattering is inherently forward-looking. The students who leave the CHRNS summer school are not just ending a week of training; they are beginning a journey to develop the next generation of technology. The materials they will go on to characterize are the building blocks for solutions to some of society's most pressing challenges in energy, medicine, and information technology.
As these new scientists return to their home institutions, they carry with them the skills to probe the deepest secrets of materials. The knowledge generated by their future experiments will ripple outward, leading to smarter technologies, a healthier population, and a deeper understanding of the physical world that surrounds us all.