The Scientific User Facilities (SUF) Division supports the R&D, planning, construction, and operation of scientific user facilities for the development of novel nano-materials and for materials characterization through x-ray, neutron, and electron beam scattering; the former is accomplished through five Nanoscale Science Research Centers and the latter is accomplished through the world's largest suite of synchrotron radiation light source facilities, neutron scattering facilities, and electron-beam microcharacterization centers. (details)

These facilities provide unique capabilities to the scientific community and are a critical component of maintaining U.S. leadership in the physical sciences. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the BES user facilities were visited by over 16,000 scientists and engineers in many fields of science and technology. Since March 2020, through remote access, user science has continued at BES user facilities at a lower level, with user numbers subsequently increasing as access restrictions are resolved.

The SUF staff members are responsible for construction project management, managing the funding of operations of these facilities, reviewing proposals, and assessing productivity. The Division also supports research activities leading to the improvement of today's facilities, paving the foundation for the development of next generation facilities.

- Dr. Linda Horton, Acting Director of Scientific User Facilities