FAQ

A collection of most common questions, please contact us should you require further information.

1. What is ANSDAC?

The African Neutron and Synchrotron Data Analysis Competency (ANSDAC) project aims to train emerging African-based faculty researchers in the art of analysing data collected at international synchrotron and/or neutron facilities. We believe that a lack of expertise in this field is the main hurdle for local researchers to engage with these large-scale facilities. While the focus is on data analysis, international lecturers will also share insights on how to write successful beamline applications.

Beyond the workshops the project aims to provide an online platform for researchers in (South) Africa to share experiences, news and find support. The ANSDAC project is specifically designed for faculty researchers with the clear expectation that the knowledge provided will be shared with colleagues and students at the respective home institutions.

2. How can I participate in an ANSDAC workshop?

The ANSDAC project will organize three workshops, from 2018, 2019 and 2021. The number of attendees per workshops is limited to 15 researchers. To apply to participate in a workshop a registration form has to be completed and submitted before the deadline together with a CV and a motivation letter. Preference will be given to researchers who previously had no extensive exposure to synchrotron and/or neutron sources and who can demonstrate the value of these techniques to their research. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of two researchers per institution.

3. What is required for the Letter of Motivation?

Applicants need to outline the relevance of synchrotron and neutron-based techniques for their research. They must outline a strategy to apply and disseminate the obtained knowledge in their home institutions. A commitment to regularly submit beamline applications after attending the workshop and to share experiences and challenges via the ANSDAC online platform is expected.

4. When is the next ANSDAC workshop?

The third ANSDAC workshop will be held virtually in three blocks on the afternoons of 5-8, 12-16 and 26-28 July 2021. Registration for this workshop opens on the 1st of June and closes on the 15th of June 2021.

5. What does the attendance of the ANSDAC workshop cost?

The virtual ANSDAC workshop in 2021 is free.