Accessing VMXm

We are pleased to announce that the micro/nanofocus macromolecular crystallography beamline VMXm is now accepting applications for use of commissioning beamtime of both protein and chemical samples. During this period beamline staff will work closely with users to obtain the best possible results from user samples within the current operating envelope. 

We can currently cater for crystals in the range 1 - 20 µm in size (smallest dimension). We provide a variable beam size from 0.4 x 1.3 to 9 x 13 µm (V x H) with fully tunable energy (10 to 25 keV currently available). Data collection can be performed using either an Eiger2X 9M CdTe (high X-ray energies) and a Pilatus3 6M (medium X-ray energies). 

Currently samples must be prepared on TEM grids and mounted on special holders that the beamline staff can provide. In the first instance we advise users to prepare samples on site with the VMXm team, using the beamline equipment available in the sample preparation lab. Samples can be prepared at room temperature  from dry crystalline powder or solutions of crystals in solvent, and at cryo temperatures using a Leica EM GP2 plunge freezer.