Researchers engineered protein-like polymers that replicate complex enzyme functions. This work, which was verified using X-ray characterization techniques at the ALS, offers a cost-effective, scalable approach that paves the way for functional materials in biomedicine, energy, and manufacturing. Read more »
ALS News Vol. 479
April 29, 2026
Multiscale X-Ray Measurements Reveal How Stretchable Polymer Semiconductors Dissipate Stress
Using multimodal, in situ measurements at the ALS, researchers uncovered a two-stage process for how stretchable polymer semiconductors adapt their structure during stretching. The findings establish a multiscale design framework for conjugated polymers used in stretchable electronic devices. Read more »
Seeing Double: Dual Measurements of Ceria Provide Insights for Catalysis
In a recent study at the ALS, researchers employed an approach that combines two techniques and uses a single X-ray beam to capture both chemical and structural changes in nanopatterned ceria during catalytic reactions. Read more »
ALS-United: Changchun Sun and Jonah Weber
ALS-United is an opportunity to meet the people collaborating at the Advanced Light Source and the ALS Upgrade Project. Hear firsthand how team science enables the cutting-edge research of today and builds the facility of the future. This month, we spoke with Changchun Sun (Staff Scientists/Engineer) and Jonah Weber (Electronics Engineer). Read more »
Submit Your 2026 User Meeting Award Nominations
Help us recognize members of the ALS community by submitting nominations for the Shirley Award, Halbach Award, Renner Award, and the Early Career Award. Deadline: May 29 Read more »
A World of Vibe Coding Opportunities at the ALS
In April 2026, a panel of vibe coders hosted a tutorial at the ALS. From a general overview to specific strategies to optimize the code, participants learned all about how vibe coding can improve their workflows. Read more »
Poster Session for Spring 2025 Cohort of ALS Fellows
On the sunny afternoon of April 23, the ALS community gathered to celebrate a year of excellent science from the ALS fellows. The Spring 2025 Cohort presented their posters, and everyone enjoyed cake on the patio. Read more »
Bowen Zheng and Mary Lopez Honored for Volunteering
On April 23rd, the Community Relations and the A-LIFT teams at Berkeley Lab held a volunteer appreciation event to honor outstanding volunteers. Bowen Zheng was honored for volunteering at with other Lab volunteers the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, at the Solano Stroll, and on his own with Meals on Wheels. Mary Lopez was honored for volunteering with the Lab at several events, including the Cinco de Mayo Festival, Berkeley Juneteenth Festival, and SF Pride Parade. Read more »
ALS in the News (April 2026)
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- Real‑time AI engine poised to revolutionize large‑scale imaging data at national labs
- Oak Ridge Lab converts plastic waste into fuel using new molten salt method
- Molten salt chemistry converts consumer polymer into fuel
- Berkeley Lab and ATAP Welcome James Logan High School
- Two Engineering Division Employees Make a Big Impact Through Mentoring and Volunteering