Institute

Jülich Centre for Neutron Science (JCNS)

Expertise

Neutron Instrumentation

JCNS operates world-class instruments at the world’s leading neutron sources: the FRM II at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) in Germany, the Institute Laue-Langevin (ILL) in France, and the ESS in Lund, Sweden. Browse our instruments list by facilities, by scientific case, or by the topics "Structure" and "Dynamics".

Neutron Techniques

We design, build and install new instruments and neutron sources at neutron facilities. With our research we push the boundaries of available techniques and develop new methods for research with neutrons.

Conferences and Workshops

JCNS organizes international conferences and workshops covering a broad range of topics in the area of neutron research.

Education

See how neutron scattering works or even better join a course. The Jülich Centre for Neutron Science organizes highly-regarded schools and courses for students and young scientists, often in close cooperation with other institutes at Forschungszentrum Jülich.

Industry Liaison Office

We offer various models to interested parties from industry and commercial institutions to make use of our unique competencies and instruments in the field of neutron analysis and scattering methods. Possible frameworks range from collaboarations to third-party funded projects and paid beam time.

Sample preparation

Sample preparation and pre-characterization are prerequisites when undertaking fundamental research on electronic and magnetic properties in polycrystalline materials, thin films, and single crystals.

In-house X-ray facilities

A series of instruments for the characterisation of samples using diffraction measurements are available in-house.

Data analysis Software

JCNS develops and maintains (in cooperation with the Technische Universität München) dedicated data-analysis software for neutron scattering and coordinate the standardization of data formats. We collaborate with other scattering centres in Europe, we participate the European consortium SINE2020, and we contribute to the European Spallation Source ESS. We support scientists in all questions related to data analysis.

Computer Simulations

Computer simulations are the third pillar of modern research, alongside experiment and theory. We at the JCNS use computer simulations for modelling material properties and for the improvement and development of scattering instruments and neutron sources.

Project Management

In order to manage all the contributions to ESS, a Programme Management Office (PMO) was established embedded in the JCNS structure. The PMO has developed a project management approach bridging the different methodologies chosen by ESS and FZJ.

Last Modified: 30.01.2026