User Information

All users | New users | Returning users

Non-consortium users may apply for beamtime by submitting a request to GCPCC that includes a brief description of your project and when you would like beam time.  The beamline staff will make every effort to accommodate your request.  We will accept forms used by other beamlines for this purpose.

In addition to the traditional onsite access, we can also provide mail-in data collection similar to the program developed by NSLS.  To utilize this option, contact the GCPCC staff requesting beamtime, and state that you would like to take advantage of mail-in data collection.

There is no charge for non-proprietary research at CAMD.  It is possible to do proprietary research at CAMD by paying for the cost of the beam time.

All Users

Before arriving to collect data, each group must send a list of substances that will be brought to the beamline.  This list should include macromolecules, heavy atoms, cryo-protectant, and any other chemicals that will be brought to the site.  The source (organism, cloned/not-cloned) must be given for any macromolecules.  All substances brought to the beamline should return with you when you beam time is over, and a statement to this effect should be included with the list of substances.  The list of substances and a list of all people who will be coming to the beamline must be sent to CAMD's safety officer, Dr. Lorraine Day, at least a week in advance of your visit.

If desired, samples may be shipped in a dry shipper to CAMD in advance of you visit. 

Ship them to:

PX Beamline c/o Henry Bellamy

CAMD/LSU

6980 Jefferson Hwy

Baton Rouge, LA 70806

(225) 578-9342

The beamline staff should be informed of any samples being shipped to CAMD along with a tracking number.  The simplest way to do this is to e-mail the information to gcpcc_access[at]xray.utmb.edu. Be aware that CAMD does not receive shipments on weekends.

New Users

Before their first visit to CAMD, everyone must take and pass the CAMD Radiation Safety Test, which may be taken online prior to your visit.  At the top of the test form, request access for the Entrance Door and the Experiment Hall. Also request after hours access, with the justification that you will be performing experiments at the beamline after hours.  List Dr. Bellamy as your CAMD contact.

When you arrive at the beamline you will need $10 as a deposit for your access card.  The access card may be kept as long as you anticipate doing work at CAMD.

Returning Users

Make sure that your radiation safety training is up to date.  Radiation safety training must be renewed once a year, either by attending a radiation safety seminar (usually offered at CAMD's annual user meeting) or by retaking the CAMD Radiation Safety Test.  If you training has expired your access cards will not allow access to the Experiment Hall.  If you are unsure of whether your training is up to date, contact the beamline staff prior to your visit.