Recent research in Nature Communications led by Aarhus University reports on the intriguing life history of narwhals, a species of Arctic marine mammal. The study reveals atomic-level details of the helical structure of the whale tusk. This knowledge of complex tooth construction advances understanding towards potential innovations in materials design.
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MAX IV celebrates 10 years accelerating science with 4th generation brilliance
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MAX IV celebrates 10 years accelerating science with 4th generation brilliance
MAX IV celebrates 10 years accelerating science with 4th generation brilliance
MAX IV Laboratory, Sweden’s large-scale research infrastructure and the world’s first 4th generation synchrotron is coming of age. A decade of growth from construction to Operations and 40 years since the founding of the laboratory’s predecessor, Max-lab. For the 10/40 Anniversary of MAX IV, there is much to celebrate for research, innovation and societal benefits to Sweden and the global community.
Electrochemistry researcher Alfred Larsson receives MAX IV PhD prize plaque
Alfred Larsson, presently working as a Postdoc at Leiden University, received the MAX IV PhD prize for his thesis “The Formation and Breakdown of Passive Film on Ni Alloys in situ synchrotron studies” at the User Meeting in January 2026. During his recent visit to MAX IV as a user, he was presented with the
In memory of Professor Richard Neutze
It is with great sadness that we received the news that Professor Richard Neutze passed away on 28 April 2026. Richard played a pivotal role in the development and success of MAX IV over many years. As a scientific pioneer in structural biology using X-rays, he was one of the driving forces behind establishing the scientific case
Beamline Collaborations through MAX IV’s Shared Postdocs: Firoz Malayil Kalathil
Collaboration with the user community is a core part of MAX IV’s work. One joint initiative is enabled through close interaction with universities, with postdoctoral researchers dividing their time between a university research group and the synchrotron.
The liquid tech of self-healing batteries
Materials scientists seek to develop better lithium (Li) metal batteries by improving structural stability and reducing dendrite formation that causes battery failure. It is well-known that instability at the metal electrode-electrolyte interface causes lithium dendrite growth, leading to short-circuiting and formation of inactive lithium. New electrolyte designs that control lithium deposition during cycling may solve these issues. Researchers are investigating liquid crystalline (LC) electrolytes under different conditions at MAX IV’s ForMAX beamline to determine whether these electrolytic materials are possible to align on demand. Successful results hold promise to propel the development of Li metal batteries as a next-generation power solution for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
Mirjam Lindberg appointed as MAX IV’s Interim Technical Director
Mirjam Lindberg, a long-time valued member of MAX IV’s Technical Division and previously the group manager of the Software Group, stepped up as Interim Technical Director starting 1 January 2026. She fills the position previously held by Anna-Hultin Stigenberg, who retired on 1 January 2026.
Safe and sustainable batteries focus for new university collaboration
A battery research collaboration focusing on lithium-ion alternatives is starting at MAX IV. The collaboration involving Swedish and Danish universities is a pilot for the new HUB user access mode.