Hey folks, Friendly reminder: new proposals AND beamtime requests (BTRs) for existing proposals are due FRIDAY...well, technically Saturday, 31-May (11:59pm New York time). Here's a look at what's in the XFM/BIC Pipeline in 2025: I. Continuum Infrared Microscope at NSLS-II: The BioImaging Core (BIC) of the NSLS-II/CBMS is rebuilding a Nicolet Continuum Infrared Microscope that was routinely used for Environmental Sciences at the original NSLS. BIC is collaborating with the 22-IR lead beamline scientist and team to integrate the IR microscope into the 22-IR photon delivery system. Replacing the glowbar source with synchrotron IR light significantly improves the spatial resolution and speed of the Continuum Infrared Microscope. One phase of the refurbishment project involved the vendor replacing the spectrometer unit, and this work has been completed. Another phase of the project that is currently underway is contracting with the vendor to reverse the handedness of the system so that it can be easily integrated into 22-IR. This procurement is now funded and underway, and the work should be completed in the coming months. Stay tuned for opportunities to get involved with early commissioning activities. [cid:7e97d954-b684-41bb-b6f7-3854674f0547] II. New large-field-of-view XRF Imaging Station The BioImaging Core (BIC) is also responsible for a new X-ray Fluorescence Imaging station that covers a broad range of energies (5 source targets) for sensitivity to both light (eg P) and heavy elements (eg U) with spatial resolutions ranging from 5 to 15 microns. Please reach out to Dr. Tiffany Victor (tvictor@bnl.gov) about opportunities to get involved with commissioning activities. [cid:0a718406-c357-45bb-b870-a5192bb6a75d] III. 8th Synchrotron Environmental Science Symposium (registration open and abstracts due 31-July) [Graphical user interface, website AI-generated content may be incorrect.] We are pleased to announce the 8th Synchrotron Environmental Science (SES) Symposium, which will be held at Stony Brook University from September 29 – October 1, 2025. This symposium will unite leading experts in synchrotron research and environmental science to foster dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. The 8th SES Symposium focuses on the complex interplay amongst and between hydrologic, geomorphic, geochemical, and biological processes and how this dynamic near-surface environment responds to change. Topics will include problems of high societal impact within research focused on the “Critical Zone”, hydrologic cycle, soil science and ecology, geochemistry, geomicrobiology, and critical elements. This year’s program features a diverse array of invited and contributed talks, updates on cutting-edge facilities, a sponsor banquet, an exclusive tour of NSLS-II beamlines, a vibrant poster session, and exhibits highlighting new technologies and instrumentation. Important Dates: March 31 Registration opens July 31 Deadline to submit an abstract September 12 Deadline to register For further information, please visit the symposium website<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://urldefense.us/v3/__http:/*www.bnl.gov/se... >. ************************************************************************************ Cheers, XFM/BIC team