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Characterization of Electrode Materials for Lithium Ion and Sodium Ion Batteries Using Synchrotron Radiation Techniques

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Synchrotron structural biology at SSRL, the beginning and beyond.

Keith Hodgson¹

¹Department of Chemistry and Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.

Journal of Synchrotron Radiation

|January 7, 2026

Summary

Synchrotron X-ray structural biology has driven major discoveries in health and sustainability for 50 years. Advances in technology and methodology at facilities like SSRL continue to push the boundaries of biological structure and function research.

Keywords:

MAD phasing SSRL Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Project macromolecular crystallography pioneering synchrotron structural biology technology developments

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Last Updated: Jul 17, 2026

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Area of Science:

Synchrotron X-ray structural biology
Biophysical characterization
Protein structure-function relationships

Background:

Synchrotron X-ray structural biology is a global enterprise impacting human health, bioenergy, and sustainability.
The Journal of Synchrotron Radiation features papers on synchrotron capabilities and discoveries.
The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) pioneered macromolecular crystallography in 1976.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the historical development and impact of synchrotron X-ray structural biology.
To highlight technological advancements and their role in user community support.
To discuss factors contributing to the sustained success and future trends in the field.

Main Methods:

Review of historical data and publications from SSRL and other synchrotron facilities.
Analysis of technological developments in X-ray detectors and beamline automation.
Discussion of accelerator research and development (R&D) and its impact.

Main Results:

Early macromolecular crystallography studies at SSRL laid the foundation for current capabilities.
Developments in anomalous scattering, multi-wavelength phasing, and automation have enhanced research.
Sustained success is attributed to technological innovation, user support, and collaborative efforts.

Conclusions:

Synchrotron X-ray structural biology has a 50-year track record of significant scientific contributions.
Ongoing technological advancements and emerging trends promise continued innovation.
The field remains critical for addressing global challenges in health, energy, and sustainability.