The main way for users to gain access to MAX IV is through the “User Science Programme” (USP). Below is an overview of the different access forms offered, follow the links for further information:
| Access Modes | How often can you apply? | Validity | Beamlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Twice per year | One cycle | All beamlines in full user operation |
| Fast | Rolling access | One cycle | See page Fast Access for currently open beamlines |
| LTP | Once per year | Up to six cycles | See page Long Term Access |
| BAG | Once per year (February call) | Four cycles | BioMAX, CoSAXS and MicroMAX |
| Hub | Pilot: every cycle | Pilot: four cycles | Differs per collaboration, see page Hub |
| Expert Commissioning | Call opens when needed | One cycle | See page Expert Commissioning |
Standard Access
The standard peer reviewed access mode at MAX IV, offering beamtime to a single scientific project.
Available at: Beamlines in User Operation
Validity: 1 Cycle
See full description of Standard access and download proposal template
Fast Access
Fast Access is intended for projects that require quick access to beamtime at MAX IV.
Available at: See full list in link below
Validity: Approx. 1 Cycle
See full description of Fast Access and download proposal template
Block Allocation Groups (BAG) Access
Available for groups of researchers that want to combine their beamtime requests into a single proposal.
Available at: BioMAX, CoSAXS, MicroMAX
Validity: 4 Cycles, ca 2 years
See full description of BAG access and download proposal template
Long Term Access (LTP)
Long Term Proposal (LTP) Access enables users and MAX IV staff to collaborate on strategic development projects that require sustained effort and continuity over several proposal cycles. focusing on innovations in experimental methods and technologies.
Available at: TBD
Validity: 2 years (4 cycles), with possibility of extension of one year (2 cycles)
See full description of LTP access and download proposal template
Hub Access
MAX IV is currently piloting the Hub Access form through BatMAX, a Hub collaboration with focus on battery technology.
Available at: Defined according to the Hub’s focus and specific needs
Validity: Current pilot, two years
See full description of Hub access and download proposal template
Proprietary Access
Available for industry, institutes, and private and public organisations providing commissioned research funded by industry. The access is covered by a non-disclosure agreement and the results belongs to the industry user with no requirement to publish.
Available at: Beamlines in User Operation
Validity: Per agreement
Expert Commissioning Access
Expert Commissioning provides MAX IV with an important step between the technical commissioning of new capabilities and their introduction into the general user programme.
Available at: 2027a – SINCRYS
Validity: One cycle
See full description of Expert Commissioning access and download proposal template.
Access through collaborations
MAX IV collaborates with various consortium and projects through which users can apply for “privileged beamtime” access, read more about beamtime collaborations and how to apply here:
Pilot reimbursement program for Swedish users
Users with a Swedish affiliation outside Skåne will, under certain circumstances, be able to apply for financial compensation for travel and sample shipping. This opportunity is a pilot project for fall 2026 (Fall26) to be evaluated and developed before the first cycle of 2027 (2027a).
How to apply
More information and an application form are available here.