19th International Conference on X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS2026)
We are delighted to invite you to the 19th International Conference on X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS2026), taking place from June 21 to 26, 2026, in the beautiful city of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The conference will be organized and hosted by Synchrotron Light Research Institute (SLRI) at the Empress Convention Center and Hotel, a premier venue that accommodates up to 600 participants and offers outstanding facilities along with welcoming atmosphere. This prestigious event is proudly hosted, following its selection by the International X-ray Absorption Society (IXAS), recognizing SLRI’s commitment to excellence in synchrotron science and its vibrant role in the global XAFS community.
The XAFS conference series, which began in 1981 and has been held every three years since 2000 in various regions around the world, will make its debut in Thailand in 2026. Hosted in the culturally rich and widely visited city of Chiang Mai, XAFS2026 will continue the tradition of bringing together scientists from across the globe to share the latest developments in X-ray absorption spectroscopy and related techniques, highlighting recent advances in science and technology and spanning diverse fields such as physics, chemistry, materials science, biological/medical science, earth/environmental science, and industrial applications.
The scientific program will feature nine plenary lectures, twenty keynote talks, numerous contributed presentations, and poster sessions. We are committed to inviting outstanding researchers as keynote speakers and ensuring ample time for stimulating panel discussions. This environment will be highly engaging for experienced researchers eager to exchange novel ideas, as well as for young scientists seeking to learn from leading experts, present their work, and build valuable scientific connections. The proceedings will be published in Radiation Physics and Chemistry, a highly ranked journal.
Chiang Mai, the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, spanning 729 years with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant local traditions, and stunning natural beauty, provides an ideal setting for both scientific exchange and cultural exploration. We are confident that XAFS2026 will be a memorable event for all participants, offering not only a stimulating scientific program but also an opportunity to enjoy the warm hospitality of Thailand.
We look forward to welcoming you to XAFS2026 in Chiang Mai!
With my very best regards,
Dr. Wantana Klysubun (XAFS2026 Chair)
Important Dates
- Abstract submission opens on: August 1, 2025
- Registration payment opens on: September 15, 2025
- Abstract submission deadline: December 31, 2025
- Abstract acceptance announcement: January 31, 2026
- Early-bird registration deadline: March 31, 2026
- Regular registration deadline: May 31, 2026 *
- Proceedings submission opens on: June 1, 2026
- Proceedings submission deadline: July 31, 2026
* To ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees, online registration will be closed once the venue reaches its full capacity, even if this occurs before the official deadline.
Scientific Program Topics
- Advanced X-ray Spectroscopies
- Beamlines and Experimental Methods
- Computational Methods and Data Analysis
- Theoretical Methods
- Materials Science
- Catalysis and Chemistry
- Energy Science
- Biological, Medical and Health Sciences
- Earth and Environmental Science
- Art, Archaeology and Cultural Heritage
- Imaging and Other Synchrotron Techniques
Registration
Registration fees
Until March 31, 2026
- Student registration: 12,000 THB
- IXAS-member registration: 21,000 THB
- Regular registration: 22,500 THB
- Accompanying person registration: 12,000 THB
- Conference Dinner: 2,700 THB
- Excursion ticket: 650-800 THB
After March 31, 2026
- Student registration: 13,700 THB
- IXAS-member registration: 22,700 THB
- Regular registration: 24,200 THB
- Accompanying person registration: 13,700 THB
- Conference Dinner: 3,200 THB
- Excursion ticket: 650-800 THB
Registration fees are charged per person and in Thai currency, including the following services:
For the conference participants:
- Admission to all conference sessions
- Welcome reception on Sunday, June 21, 2026
- Lunch on Monday, June 22 to Friday, June 26, 2026, at the conference venue
- Coffee/tea breaks during the conference
- Conference booklet and access to abstract book
- Conference souvenir
For the accompanying persons:
- Welcome reception on Sunday, June 21, 2026
- Lunch on Monday, June 22 to Friday, June 26, 2026, at the conference venue
- Coffee/tea breaks during the conference
- Conference souvenir
Abstract submission
Abstract Preparation Guidelines
- Abstracts must be submitted in English only through the link provided at the top of this page.
- Any unusual abbreviations must be spelled out on first use.
- Abstracts must be submitted as a plain text.
- The abstract should be organized into the following paragraphs:
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results and discussion
- Conclusion(s)
- Do not include title or author information in the body of your abstract.
- The maximum length allowed for an abstract is 300 words, excluding the title, author(s) and institutional affiliations.
- The maximum length for an abstract title is 25 words.
- It is the author’s responsibility to ensure the accuracy of the abstract. Any errors in spelling, grammar or scientific content will be published as submitted.
Program
Plenary Speakers
Operando characterization of catalysts using XAS
- Dr. Simon R. Bare (Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, USA.)
Using advanced X-ray spectroscopies at XFELs to probe ultrafast dynamics in chemistry, biology and materials science
- Dr. Christopher J. Milne (European X-ray Free Electron Laser (Eu-XFEL), Germany)
Materials Science
- Prof. Kristina Kvashnina (Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Germany)
Revealing artifacts manufacturing and understanding degradation phenomena thanks to micro-X ray absorption
- Dr. Marine Cotte (European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), France)
Unveiling Battery and Energy Materials using XAFS
- Dr. Pinit Kidkhunthod (Synchrotron Light Research Institute (SLRI), Thailand)
Topic: TBA
- Prof. Christopher Chantler (University of Melbourne, Australia)
Using X-ray Spectroscopy to Open New Windows on Liquid State Chemistry
- Dr. Daniel Bowron (ISIS neutron and muon source, United Kingdom)
Beamlines and Experimental Methods
- Prof. Maarten Nachtegaal (Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), Switzerland)
Application of XAFS to geochemistry, cosmochemistry, and environmental chemistry
- Prof. Yoshio Takahashi (University of Tokyo, Japan)
Social Program
XAFS2026 Conference Dinner Invitation
- Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
- Time: 18:30 – 21:00
- Venue: to be announced
- Ticket Price:
- THB 2,700 per person (early-bird registration deadline is on March 31, 2026, at 23:59 Indochina Time (UTC+7)
- THB 3,200 per person (After March 31, 2026)
- Purchase: Available via the Registration Payment page
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the XAFS2026 Conference Dinner, where science meets culture in the heart of Chiang Mai.
Enjoy a full-course menu, including appetizer, soup, main course (beef, fish, or vegetarian), dessert, and petit four.
Excursion
Tickets for the afternoon and evening excursion on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, will be available for direct purchase from the tour desk located on the ground floor of the Empress Convention Center. The desk will be open for ticket sales on June 21–22, 2026.
Please note: Cash payments only will be accepted.
The tours are operated by Sawardee Lanna Ltd., Part., under Tourism Business License No. 23/03680, issued by the Department of Tourism.
Five journey options are available:
🏛️ City & Temples Tour – Route A (14:00-17:00)
Chiang Mai’s rich and independent history has helped preserve a vibrant tapestry of Thai culture. This ancient city, famed for its historic canals and spiritual heritage, invites you to explore its most revered temples.
- Wat Phra Singh – Admire exquisite northern Thai architecture, especially the beautifully crafted chapel.
- Wat Chedi Luang – Marvel at Chiang Mai’s largest stupa, a towering symbol of Lanna legacy.
- Wat Chiang Man – Step into history at the city’s oldest temple, built during Chiang Mai’s founding era.
Important Temple Etiquette
To show respect in sacred spaces, all visitors are kindly requested to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees when entering temples.
🏛️ City & Temples Tour – Route B (14:00-17:00)
Step beyond the city walls and explore Chiang Mai’s spiritual heart through temples that blend history, artistry, and tranquility.
- Wat Umong – A 700-year-old forest monastery famous for its ancient meditation tunnels, moss-covered stupa, and peaceful lakeside setting.
- Wat Sri Supan (Silver Temple) – Thailand’s only temple clad entirely in handcrafted silver, showcasing exquisite Lanna artistry and traditional silversmithing.
- Wat Suan Dok – A serene temple with a towering golden chedi housing Buddha relics, surrounded by white stupas containing the ashes of Chiang Mai’s royal family.
Important Temple Etiquette
To show respect in sacred spaces, all visitors are kindly requested to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees when entering temples.
🏞️Doi Suthep Day Tour (14:00-17:00)
Wat Pha Lat is nestled in a lush forest and is known for its serene ambiance and captivating statues. To reach the temple, take a short walk and admire its unique architectural style, which blends Thai and Burmese details within a jungle setting. You can also listen to the calming sound of the nearby waterfall.
After visiting Wat Pha Lat, head to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of northern Thailand's most sacred temples. To access this temple, you will need to climb 306 steps, which will reward you with stunning views of the surrounding area and the temple itself.
You will be impressed by the well-preserved 14th-century gold pagoda, which enshrines a relic of Buddha's shoulder bone.
Important Temple Etiquette
To show respect in sacred spaces, all visitors are kindly requested to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees when entering temples.
🌇Doi Suthep Evening Tour (16:30-19:30)
Once the sun sets, Chiang Mai transforms into a city of enchantment. Experience its magical charm on an evening tour that highlights two of the city’s most beloved temples:
Wat Umong
Step into the serene tunnels of Wat Umong, where the quiet whispers of ancient stories transcend religion and speak to the soul. This centuries-old temple offers a unique spiritual atmosphere that invites reflection and peace.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Admire the sacred beauty of this iconic mountaintop temple, illuminated under the night sky. Enjoy breathtaking views of Chiang Mai from above, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds enhancing the experience.
Important Temple Etiquette
To show respect in sacred spaces, all visitors are kindly requested to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees when entering temples.
🧵Handicrafts (14:00-17:00)
Chiang Mai is famous for its handicrafts, each specialty representing the unique skills of various local villages.
Sankampaeng is well-known for silk and cotton weaving, while Borsang is famous for its colorful silk and paper umbrellas. Additionally, high-quality Thai Celadon, which is handmade, is also produced in the area.
Throughout this tour, you will have the opportunity to see a variety of other handicrafts, including lacquerware, silverware, precious stones, and jade.
Sponsors and Exhibitors
XAFS2026: Sponsors and Exhibitors
Venue
The Empress Convention Center and Hotel
- Location: 199/42 Chang Klan Road, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
- Distance from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX): approximately 7 km (15-20 minute drive)
