June 30, 2005

Changes to NSLS User Access Policy

Important changes to operations at the NSLS have been incorporated into the NSLS User Access Policy. We are recommending that all our users review this policy to support the NSLS in its mission to perform outstanding science in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. The document outlines the general policies for user access to the NSLS and is designed to ensure open and fair access to the NSLS by the scientific community at large, to sustain the highest standards of scientific and technical excellence, and to be responsive and adaptable to varying user needs and funding realities. The policy changes were made after consulting with the NSLS User Executive Committee and were approved by the NSLS Science Advisory Committee.

The new NSLS User Access Policy can be found at: http://www.nsls.bnl.gov/newsroom/publications/manuals/ppm/.

FACILITY BEAMLINES

One major change in the new policy is the creation of "facility" beamlines, which are controlled and managed by the NSLS. At least 75% of the available beam time on each facility beamline will be allocated to general users and one or more contributing users, with at least 50% of the available beam time going to general users. Policy information pertaining to facility beamlines can be found at: http://www.nsls.bnl.gov/newsroom/publications/manuals/ppm/#Section2.1.

A list of NSLS facility beamlines can be found at:
http://www.nsls.bnl.gov/beamlines/bynumber.asp?t=1.

CONTRIBUTING USERS

Another major change is the establishment of a new mode of user access, known as contributing users (CUs). CUs are individuals or groups who carry out research at facility beamlines as well as enhance the capabilities of those beamlines or contribute to their operation. CUs typically develop instrumentation in some manner, bringing external financial and/or intellectual capital into the development of the beamlines or making an external contribution to the operation of the beamlines. To encourage involvement, and in exchange for supporting the general user program, CUs may be recognized for their investments by receiving a specified percentage of beam time on one or more beamlines for a period of up to three years, with the possibility of renewal. The first group of CUs will be selected on September 1, 2005.

To learn more about becoming a contributing user, please review Section 1.2 of the NSLS User Access Policy: http://www.nsls.bnl.gov/newsroom/publications/manuals/ppm/#Section1.2.

Procedures for becoming a contributing user can be found at: http://www.nsls.bnl.gov/users/usersguide/mode-cu.asp.

We urge our users to review the new User Access Policy and to assist the NSLS in maintaining its high standards of excellence.

ARTICLE BY: Chi-Chang Kao