r/crystallography

https://preview.redd.it/66sa1sjlp7jh1.png?width=713&format=png&auto=webp&s=809416b85071a90171441914989f9dd74b9f8ad9

Hello! I've been using PLATON for quite a long time, usually when finding missing symmetry operations, twinning and, most importantly, verification purposes. When using PLATON from Olex2, I always get this white dialog window, and sometimes it can freeze Olex2.
I know this program provides execution from cmd, e.g. platon.exe -u mol.cif (CheckCIF shortcut), but even then this dialog window is still present.

Any ideas on how to execute PLATON with bypassing this window altogether?

p.s. also no idea why it's complaining about SHELXL, even though I'm using v2025/1

i searched COD but couldnt find it anywhere

Hello everyone,

I am a materials science researcher from Kazakhstan, and I am currently looking for an opportunity to improve my practical skills in X-ray diffraction (XRD) and crystallographic analysis.

My research is mainly focused on metallic alloys, coatings, ceramics, powder metallurgy, and structural characterization of materials. I already have experience working with XRD data, including basic phase identification and interpretation of diffraction patterns, but I would like to develop more advanced and systematic skills in crystallography and XRD analysis.

I am particularly interested in gaining hands-on experience combined with theoretical knowledge:

• XRD sample preparation and measurement optimization;
• phase identification and database searching;
• indexing of diffraction peaks;
• crystallographic structure analysis;
• Rietveld refinement;
• quantitative phase analysis;
• lattice parameter determination;
• crystallite size and microstrain analysis;
• preferred orientation / texture analysis;
• residual stress analysis;
• interpretation of complex or multiphase diffraction patterns;
• software such as GSAS-II, FullProf, TOPAS, HighScore Plus, Match!, Profex/BGMN, or similar programs.

I would also be very interested in learning how experienced crystallographers approach difficult cases—for example, overlapping peaks, minor phases, low-crystallinity materials, nanocrystalline materials, and distinguishing between structurally similar phases.

I am looking for a short-term research internship, visiting researcher opportunity, summer school, workshop, or intensive hands-on course in XRD or crystallography.

I would especially appreciate recommendations for universities, synchrotron facilities, research institutes, crystallography laboratories, or X-ray characterization centers that accept international students or researchers.

Programs offering funding, travel support, accommodation, or reduced/no tuition fees would be particularly helpful, although recommendations for high-quality paid courses are also welcome.

The location is flexible — Europe, Asia, the US, or other regions are all possible.

If you know of any laboratories, courses, researchers, schools, or programs that would be suitable, I would be very grateful for your recommendations.

Thank you!

Hello, we have been using Rigaku ultima IV diffractometer in our lab for several years. Every now and then we come across communication problems with PC and instruments. And the service people changed instruments mother board once, PCle boards three times which costs a lot.

We have the same problem again. The XG property shows cannot generate x-rays, check generator. We have tried trouble shooting the the serial ports also.

Please help me diagnose and solve this problem. (Also how do I approach if the problem is board cannot be to communicate with chiller, which we cannot not see in pc)

Hi Calgary!

As part of the IUCr 2026 International Congress of Crystallography, we're hosting a free public lecture that's open to everyone—no science background required.

🗓 Friday, August 14

📍 TransAlta Hall, Bow Valley College (South Campus)

🕕 Doors open: 6:00 PM

🎤 Lecture begins: 6:35 PM

Why Do We Like Crystals?

Presented by internationally recognized crystallographer Professor Juan Manuel García-Ruiz

Why have crystals fascinated people for thousands of years? This talk explores the surprising connections between crystals, archaeology, art, philosophy, science, and even recent research on chimpanzee cognition. It's an engaging look at why these beautiful natural objects have captured human imagination across cultures and throughout history.

The lecture will be followed by a Q&A session, and admission is completely free.

Whether you're interested in science, geology, history, art, or you're just looking for an interesting evening downtown, we'd love to see you there!