Hercules, a strong programme

The first 2006 Hercules specialized course, from May 21st to May 26th, covered X-ray imaging techniques based on absorption, phase contrast, diffraction and fluorescence. As one of the participants explains, “it enables us to broaden our knowledge, we get to learn different techniques that we didn’t know about before coming”. Even though the program is limited to 20 participants only, the lectures are open to anyone who is interested in the subject. For instance, Paul Tafforeau, a paleontologist working at the ESRF, listens to the courses to learn more about the techniques that allow him to scan his findings everyday. “I like to know the theoretical part of my practice”.

Out of 77 applications, the organizers selected the candidates who would profit the most from this experience and who show a definite motivation. The students come from all over Europe - except for one from Taiwan and one from Canada. As one of the organizers/speakers, José Baruchel underlines, “the participants get together and are able to create for themselves a network of acquaintances for the future”. However the participants are not the only ones to benefit from the course. “Hercules also represents an enrichment for the speakers who learn from their colleagues”, explains José Baruchel.

See also the Hercules web site: http://hercules.grenoble.cnrs.fr/