Researcher at the Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff" at the University of Florence, Mónica Ledesma Motolinía has been working for several years on soft condensed matter, active matter and magnetorheological fluids. She was eager to explore the characteristics of beamlines suited to her research and to understand how experts in related fields design and conduct their experiments within these large-scale infrastructures.
"The NEPHEWS program is an excellent opportunity to learn about the experimental techniques available at the most prestigious synchrotrons in Europe," says Mónica. "Accessing the facilities, working alongside beamline specialists and scientists developing high-impact projects, helps to strengthen one’s skills and opens the door to concrete collaborations for future projects."
From left to right: Sofiane Guessasma (BIA Unit – Biopolymers Interactions Assemblies – INRAE, Nantes), Thomas Bizien (Beamline Scientist on SWING), Joëlle Davy (BIA Unit, INRAE, Nantes), Mónica Ledesma Motolinía, Amélie Moisy (BIA Unit, INRAE, Nantes), Hugo Voisin (BIA Unit, INRAE, Nantes), Bernard Cathala (BIA Unit, INRAE, Nantes).
During her stay on the SWING beamline at SOLEIL, she learned how microfluidic experiments can be integrated with Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) techniques, a combined approach which, as she explains, presents critical points that only become evident when the experiments are being developed.
Mónica Ledesma Motolinía and Amélie Moisy inside the experimental hutch of SWING.
Her visit also gave her the opportunity to interact with technical staff and scientists, who provided her with all the information needed to submit a proposal to the beamlines, prepare her experiments, and know who to contact in case of questions.
Beyond the technical aspects, Mónica also highlights the human dimension of the experience:
"Undoubtedly, the experience exceeded my expectations, since I was able to spend some time alongside young researchers with innovative ideas in science."
An immersion that she hopes will pave the way for future experiments at SOLEIL.
See you again soon at SOLEIL, Mónica!
3D printed transparent millifluidic circuit for in situ analysis of nanocellulose orientation during a flow-focusing process, using the SWING beamline.