MAX IV Laboratory, Sweden’s large-scale research infrastructure and the world’s first 4th generation synchrotron is coming of age. A decade of growth from construction to Operations and 40 years since the founding of the laboratory’s predecessor, Max-lab. For the 10/40 Anniversary of MAX IV, there is much to celebrate for research, innovation and societal benefits to Sweden and the global community.
Electrochemistry researcher Alfred Larsson receives MAX IV PhD prize plaque
Alfred Larsson, presently working as a Postdoc at Leiden University, received the MAX IV PhD prize for his thesis “The Formation and Breakdown of Passive Film on Ni Alloys in situ synchrotron studies” at the User Meeting in January 2026. During his recent visit to MAX IV as a user, he was presented with the
In memory of Professor Richard Neutze
It is with great sadness that we received the news that Professor Richard Neutze passed away on 28 April 2026. Richard played a pivotal role in the development and success of MAX IV over many years. As a scientific pioneer in structural biology using X-rays, he was one of the driving forces behind establishing the scientific case
Beamline Collaborations through MAX IV’s Shared Postdocs: Firoz Malayil Kalathil
Collaboration with the user community is a core part of MAX IV’s work. One joint initiative is enabled through close interaction with universities, with postdoctoral researchers dividing their time between a university research group and the synchrotron.
The liquid tech of self-healing batteries
Materials scientists seek to develop better lithium (Li) metal batteries by improving structural stability and reducing dendrite formation that causes battery failure. It is well-known that instability at the metal electrode-electrolyte interface causes lithium dendrite growth, leading to short-circuiting and formation of inactive lithium. New electrolyte designs that control lithium deposition during cycling may solve these issues. Researchers are investigating liquid crystalline (LC) electrolytes under different conditions at MAX IV’s ForMAX beamline to determine whether these electrolytic materials are possible to align on demand. Successful results hold promise to propel the development of Li metal batteries as a next-generation power solution for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
Mirjam Lindberg appointed as MAX IV’s Interim Technical Director
Mirjam Lindberg, a long-time valued member of MAX IV’s Technical Division and previously the group manager of the Software Group, stepped up as Interim Technical Director starting 1 January 2026. She fills the position previously held by Anna-Hultin Stigenberg, who retired on 1 January 2026.
Safe and sustainable batteries focus for new university collaboration
A battery research collaboration focusing on lithium-ion alternatives is starting at MAX IV. The collaboration involving Swedish and Danish universities is a pilot for the new HUB user access mode.
MAX IV Roadshow: a collaborative journey with Swedish universities
The MAX IV organisation is taking the MAX 4U science case and key messages on the benefits of high brilliance X-ray analysis on the road this spring, visiting more than a dozen universities in Sweden for presentations and discussion.
A visceral appeal to seed the future
MAX IV’s first artist in residence, Jennifer Rainsford has revealed her plans for a science-inspired artwork crafted with X-rays and experiences from the experimental halls of MAX IV. With insights from ForMAX, NanoMAX and other beamlines and the laser lab, her new exhibit and film will offer the public a fresh perspective and closer look at research conducted at Sweden’s large-scale research infrastructure, MAX IV.
A particular order – keys to artificial solid materials
Semiconductor nanoparticles can emit light or act as sensors, and their properties can be tailored to specific purposes. One particle alone is often not enough, but in an ordered material composed of many nanoparticles, the properties are amplified. A research team has used MAX IV to show that such ordered materials can be formed from low-cost, versatile perovskite semiconductor nanoparticles.