From: Samira Sumaila [mailto:Samira.Sumaila@lightsource.ca] On Behalf Of **Summer School
Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2015 10:23 AM
To: Graduate Studies; Martha Blouw; Digvir Jayas
Subject: New techniques possible for plant science research

Hello All,

 We would  appreciate it if you could please send the information below and the attached poster  to  the appropriate departments.

Are you looking for new techniques to address your research question related to plant science? Consider the power of synchrotron techniques…

The Canadian Light Source synchrotron is offering a summer school focussed on plant science research. This is the perfect opportunity for you, or someone on your research team, to learn how a new toolbox that may offer more insights for molecular to atomic scale plant structure and biochemistry.

Here are a few recent examples of breakthroughs using CLS:

1. Scientists discover the ‘why’ of heat tolerance in peas: http://www.lightsource.ca/news/media_release_20150324.php

2. Direct and up-close views of plant cell walls show a leading role for lignin-modifying enzymes on ensuing xylanases: http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/content/7/1/496

3. Nitrogen input quality changes the biochemical composition of soil organic matter stabilized in the fine fraction: a long-term study: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10533-013-9871-z

4. Introduction of Soft X-Ray Spectromicroscopy as an Advanced Technique for Plant Biopolymers Research: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0122959

5. Synchrotron based phase contrast X-ray imaging combined with FTIR spectroscopy reveals structural and biomolecular differences in spikelets play a significant role in resistance to Fusarium in wheat: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2229/15/24

The school will prepare participants for basic application of synchrotron techniques and provide practical experiences. It is scheduled for July 20-25, 2015 and costs a mere $500 ($350 for students and there is a student travel grant available). The deadline for applications is May 15^th. Details can be found here: http://www.lightsource.ca/events/summerschool/

If you have any questions, please feel free to email summerschool@lightsource.ca

Regards,

Samira Sumaila.