MicroMAX will open up new possibilities in the area of structural biology making it possible to study proteins in 3D and to follow them in time. MicroMAX will allow studying the molecules that are most interesting but most difficult to study because they only provide microcrystals.
MicroMAX will provide a very small but parallel and intense X-ray beam and it will be possible to use new methods of presenting the samples to the X-ray beam. The technique used is called X-ray crystallography. By making crystals of the protein molecules, shine our X-ray beam on the crystals and record the scattered X-rays it is possible to obtain a 3D-model of the protein molecule.
The science of structural biology studies structures of biological molecules with the goal to understand how biology works on a molecular level. The function of these molecules is determined by their structure, and since most functions in for example our cells are carried out by these molecules, it is fundamental to understanding life. X-ray crystallography plays an important role in the development of new medicines.
MicroMAX has been funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
Call for proposals Fall 23
A call for proposal will open February 7 with closing deadline March 7, 2023. For more general information about the call see https://www.maxiv.lu.se/user-access/call-for-proposals/.
MicroMAX is open for standard and BAG proposals for rotational crystallography with the MD3-UP diffractometer, ISARA sample changer and Eiger2 X CdTe 9M detector using the crystal monochromator and CRL focusing (beam size down to 5 micrometer).
The commissioning of this functionality will happen during spring 2023. We expect to open for general users after the 2023 summer shutdown but the exact date depends on the progress. Since this functionality overlaps with BioMAX we encourage users to apply for both beamlines so that the choice of beamline can be decided at the time of scheduling.
We also invite proposals for expert commissioning proposals to help test and develop the functionality of the beamline. These calls are for developing serial crystallography and time-resolved experiments. Fixed-target serial crystallography and possibly other sample delivery methods will be available. Both monochromators and CRL focusing will be available. The chopper, final one-micrometre focusing or integrating detector will not be available during this period.
Please contact Thomas Ursby (see top of right hand side menu) for questions regarding the call. All users are encouraged to get in contact before submitting a proposal, in particular for the commissioning experts call.