The ICDD Early Career Researcher (ECR) Networking Group has been established to foster an inclusive ECR community within ICDD. Through a diverse range of networking and support mechanisms, the group aims to provide the necessary tools and support for ECRs to become established in their chosen fields, create strategic alliances, and raise their professional profile. Further, the group provides unique opportunities and a supportive space for ICDD ECRs around the globe to meet up, both virtually and in person at events, to discuss their work and share their experiences.
ECR objectives include:
- Strengthening ECRs’ skills and professional networks to support career development in the field of
X-ray diffraction. - Ensuring the activities and opportunities offered by ICDD are informed by the needs and interests of ECRs.
- Nurturing and facilitating engagement between and across ECRs, as well as the wider ICDD community, nationally and internationally.
- Supporting ECRs in their career ambitions in the field of X-ray diffraction through skills development, networking opportunities, workshops, and events.
- Contributing to the equality opportunity for ECRs through encouraging diversity and inclusivity.
LinkedIn and Instagram
SUPPORTED BY EXPERTS IN THE FIELD OF X-RAY ANALYSIS, WITH GUEST LECTURERS SUCH AS:
- Tom Blanton, ICDD, USA
- Robert Green, Alabama State University, USA
- Andrew Payzant, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, USA
- Keith Rogers, Cranfield University, UK
- Carlo Segre, Illinois Institute of Technology, USA
- Tom Watkins, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, USA
- Nichole Wonderling, Penn State University, USA
DXC Early Career Researchers Lunch
All Early Career Researchers Welcome!
Thursday, 6 August 2026 • 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm • Lilac D
ICDD is hosting the Early Career Researchers (ECR) workshop at DXC. This session is designed to support early-career researchers in developing their skills and connecting with others in the field. Lunch will be provided.
The workshop will bring together ECRs from a range of backgrounds and locations, offering a chance to share ideas, build connections, and explore ways to apply and strengthen transferable skills. It’s a useful opportunity to learn from others and think about next steps in your career.
Presentation:
What’s The Deal with Patents?
Andy Drews, Ford Motor Company, USA
Most members of the general public have no idea what a scientific publication really is, but think they know what a patent is, while most members of the academic community know what a scientific publication is, but few are familiar with patents and their potential value.
In this talk, I will provide a brief introduction to patents from the inventor’s perspective. I’ll describe what patents are, what they’re good for and how to prepare a disclosure and what to expect as your invention moves through the process to become a patent.
If you would like to participate, please email Elizabeth Dempsey by 22 July 2026.
www.dxcicdd.com/students/
Past Events:
ECR Event at the Denver X-ray Conference in Westminster, CO, USA
ECR Career Development Workshop
Monday, 5 August 2024 | Westminster Westin – Room: Cotton Creek | Time: 12:00-1:20pm
We had a successful event at DXC. ECRs took the opportunity to network with other Early Career Researchers, ask for advice or any x-ray-related questions, and find career opportunities.
Sarah Gosling
Writing Your First Grant:
Top tips for success
Jessica Lyza
Pivoting Paths:
Navigating Work, Graduate Studies, and Purpose
Emily Arnold
Jumping the Pond:
A Move from Forensics to a Synchrotron
Join the ECR Network on LinkedIn and Instagram for information on upcoming events.
Currently, nearly 100 ECRs and ECR Advisors from all over the globe have joined the networking group!
