19th International Conference on X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS19)

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to invite you to the 19th International Conference on X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS19), held from July 14 to 18, 2025, in Chicago, USA, and hosted by the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT).

The XAFS conference series has a rich history of bringing together researchers worldwide to discuss the latest advancements in X-ray absorption spectroscopy and related techniques. Since its inception in 1981, this conference has provided a platform for scientific exchange, collaboration, and innovation across disciplines such as physics, chemistry, materials science, biology, and environmental science.

XAFS19 will continue this tradition by offering a dynamic scientific program, including keynote lectures from leading experts, engaging oral presentations, and interactive poster sessions. Our goal is to create an environment where seasoned researchers and early-career scientists can exchange ideas, share breakthroughs, and explore new directions in X-ray absorption fine structure research.

Chicago, known for its vibrant scientific community, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene, serves as an ideal backdrop for this meeting. We invite you to participate in stimulating discussions, network with fellow scientists, and enjoy all that Chicago has to offer.

We eagerly look forward to welcoming you to XAFS19 at IIT for a conference that promises to be both scientifically enriching and socially engaging!

See you in Chicago!

Prof. Carlo Segre (On behalf of the XAFS19 Organizing Committee)

Why attend XAFS19 Conference?

• 1st worldwide congress in X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy with 1,000+ expected participants
• 7 plenary lectures – 15 keynotes speakers – many oral presentations, and 2 poster sessions
• Booths mixing industrial and academic exhibitors
• 2 workshops and 1 Q2XAFS satellite meeting.
• Cutting-edge scientific program featuring the latest advancements in X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy and related techniques across multiple disciplines.
• Unparalleled networking opportunities with leading experts, emerging researchers, and industry professionals from around the world.
• Hands-on workshops and tutorials designed to enhance technical skills and provide in-depth knowledge of new methodologies and instrumentation.
• A modern Convention Centre located in the heart of Chicago
• Chicago’s diversity—its towering skyscrapers, world-class cuisine, acclaimed museums, and vibrant festivals—will captivate you.
• A unique blend of science and culture, allowing participants to explore Chicago’s renowned academic institutions, historic landmarks, and dynamic scientific community.

Scientific Topics

• Advanced X-ray Spectroscopies                                                       
• Battery Science
• Beamline and Experimental Methods
• Biology
• Catalysis
• Data Analysis Methods
• Chemistry
• Geo- and Environmental Sciences
• Material Science
• Physics
• Theoretical Methods

Registration

Register here

Registration fees

• XAFS19 registration (non-students): $775.00
• XAFS19 student registration: $350.00  
• Conference banquet (Ticket to conference banquet): $100.00
• APS tour bus (Bus fare for APS Tour on Friday): $50.00 

Abstract submission

Submit your abstract here

Program Overview

XAFS19: Program overview

Plenary Speakers

• Talk Title: “Stimulated X-ray Emission Spectroscopy – Surprises, Opportunities, and Challenges”
  • Professor Uwe Bergmann (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
• Talk Title: “3D Spectroimaging of Catalysts and Fuel Cells”
  • Professor Mizuki Tada (Nagoya University)
• Talk Title: “Lanthanides and Actinides: A Weird and Wonderful World of f-electrons.”
  • Professor Kristina Kvashnina (Rossendorf Beamline (BM20) The European Synchrotron (ESRF) and Head of Molecular Structures Department Institute of Resource Ecology Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf e.V.)
• Talk Title: TBA
  • Dr. Marine Cotte (The European Synchrotron (ESRF))
• Talk Title: New Tricks with an Old Rowland Circle: High Resolution X-ray Spectroscopy from the Synchrotron to the Laboratory and Back Again
  • Professor Gerald Seidler (University of Washington)
• Talk Title: “Advances in Understanding Operando Catalyst Structure Enabled by the Consortium for Operando and Advanced Catalyst Characterization via Electronic Spectroscopy and Structure (Co-ACCESS) at SSRL”
  • Dr. Simon Bare (SLAC National Laboratory)

Social Program

Icebreaker Reception – Sunday, July 13th at Herman Hall

The Organizing Committee is delighted to invite all XAFS19 delegates to a Welcome Reception at the Herman Hall. This informal gathering is the perfect opportunity to meet fellow attendees, reconnect with colleagues, and engage in conversations in a relaxed setting before the main conference begins.

Join us for an evening of networking, refreshments, and a warm welcome to XAFS19. Whether you’re a first-time participant or a returning attendee, this reception is a great way to break the ice, exchange ideas, and set the stage for an inspiring and productive event.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Conference Banquet – Thursday, July 17th, at Herman Hall

More information is coming soon.

Boat Tour

More information is coming soon.

International Advisory Committee

• Professor Kiytotaka Asakura,  Ritsumeikan University, Chair of the International X-ray Absorption Society
• Professor Christopher Chantler, University of Melbourne
• Professor Paola D’Angelo,  Universita di Roma, La Sapienza, Treasurer of the International X-ray Absorption Society
• Professor Sofia Diaz-Moreno, Diamond Light Source, Vice-Chair of the International X-ray Absorption Society
• Professor Anatoly Frenkel, Stony Brook University
• Dr. Pieter Glatzel, European Synchrotron Research Facility
• Professor Jan-Dierk Grunwaldt, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie
• Dr. Wantana Klysubun, Synchrotron Light Research Institute, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
• Professor Matthew Newville, The University of Chicago
• Professor John J. Rehr, The University of Washington
• Dr. Riti Sarangi, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Venue

Illinois Institute of Technology
Hermann Hall Conference Center
3241 S Federal St, Chicago, IL 60616

Transportation

Getting to IIT:

• CTA train from O’Hare Airport:
  • Take the CTA Blue Line from O’Hare to Clark/Lake station
    Transfer to southbound Green Line toward Ashland/63rd
    Get off at IIT/35th street, walk ~2-3 blocks north to 31st and State
• CTA train from Midway Airport:
  • Orange Line to Roosevelt Station
    Red Line southbound to Sox/35th Street (this goes down the 90/94 Expressway)
    At Sox/35th St., walk east ~3 blocks to State, then four blocks north to 31st and State, or better, walk north on Dearborn St. through campus (see campus map)
• By car coming from South on I55 (“Stevenson Expressway”):
  • Drive north on I55, then exit onto 90/94 (“Dan Ryan Expressway”), heading east to Indiana. Immediately take the exit on the right to 31st St, then take the next left on 31st (eastbound).
    Drive a ~3 blocks, then turn right on State.
    Visitor Parking is at 32nd and State. (If you miss the 31st Street exit on the expressway, the 35th Street exit is OK, too)
• By car from the south on I90/94 (“Dan Ryan expressway):
  • Take the 31st St exit, take a right onto 31st Street (heading east), then turn right on State Street southbound to visitor parking on your left at 32nd and State

Visitor parking is available at 32nd and State.