Becoming a User

Facilities and research programs Argonne's Center for Nanoscale Materials are accessible for user-initiated nanoscience research to researchers worldwide on the basis of peer-reviewed proposals.

Two to three calls for proposals will be issued each year. Proposals will be solicited in the broad areas outlined by the CNM scientific themes. The leaders of the themes and facilities welcome discussions with you in the development of your proposal.

Step 1. User Registration

For access to CNM, you will need to complete an online registration even if you have previously registered with an Argonne user facility. If you are a new user, you will be issued an ID number that must be used for the proposal process.

• Online User Facilities Registration System

Step 2. Submit a User Proposal

• Before submitting a proposal, review the following:
  • Scientific Groups
  • Capabilities
  • Policy for User Access
• Identify the appropriate research capabilities related to your research.
• Discuss your research with the appropriate CNM contacts, who will assist you in developing a proposal. There is no limit to the number of capabilities you may access for your proposed research. However, you must first talk with the CNM contact for each capability listed on the proposal.
• If you haven't already done so, register through the Online User Facility Registration System.
• Submit your proposal through the online system:
  • Proposal Form Description and Guidelines
  • Snapshot of Online Proposal Form (example only -- proposals MUST be submitted online)
  • Online User Proposal System
    • For general assistance, contact Carrie Clark, 630-252-6952.
    • For technical assistance, contact Technical Support.

Step 3. Proposal Review Process

Each proposal submitted to CNM is subject to review by the Proposal Evaluation Board (see Policy for User Access) to evaluate its scientific merit and its technical feasibility. The principal investigator of the proposal will be notified about the result of this review.

Step 4. Plan Your Trip to CNM

After your proposal has been accepted:

• Schedule an experiment time with your CNM contact.
• Inform the User Administrator as soon as your experiment time is confirmed.
• Ensure that all colleagues visiting Argonne have registered.
• Complete the safety review (coordinated by the User Office).
• Allow time to take safety training courses once you arrive.
• Bring two pieces of identification (e.g., driver’s license, photo ID, and/or passport).
• Arrange for Delivery of Samples and Materials.
• Make reservation for your hotel.
• Mail your itinerary to the User Administrator.

In addition, three major facilities at Argonne are available for user-initiated nanoscience research: the Advanced Photon Source, the Intense Pulsed Neutron Source, and the Electron Microscopy Center.

If you have questions and comments, send e-mail to the User Administrator.