We are New Zealand Synchrotron Group. We help Aotearoa's research community access state-of-the-art facilities at the Australian Synchrotron.

Accelerating New Zealand science innovation

Growing an innovation-based economy requires access to the highest quality research facilities. Synchrotrons facilitate world-class technological innovation, and New Zealand researchers have made significant discoveries in partnership with the Australian Synchrotron.

Our research community benefits from preferred access to the Australian Synchrotron, thanks to the significant capital investment in facilities over the last 19 years by our government and research community.

Synchrotron science

There are few science tools that have the range of applications enabled by synchrotrons.

Synchrotron techniques are used to develop and enhance new products, from everyday commodities, such as chocolate and cosmetics, to revolutionary drugs and surgical tools.

For researchers

The Australian Synchrotron is one of the best in the world. Aotearoa New Zealand’s partnership contributes to the capability of our science community to deliver world-standard research, now and in the future.

Membership of the NZSG provides a range of benefits for researchers from participating institutions.

Science impact

Researchers from Aotearoa New Zealand have used the Australian Synchrotron to investigate a wide range of questions.

Discover some of the many projects that are representative of research undertaken in the last few years.

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Case Study

Green mining of rare earth elements using algae

Many devices, including smartphones, electric vehicles and wind turbines, rely on rare earth elements. This research opens the doors to more sustainable alternatives to rare earth mining.

Case study

Rapid assessment of pumice from the 2022 Tonga volcanic eruption assists disaster response efforts

The Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai eruption was the largest in more than 30 years. Rapid assessment of samples using the Imaging and Medical beamline found that the small particles ejected by the volcano were a hazard to helicopter flight and people. As well as being of great scientific value, the team were able to relay the hazard information directly to both New Zealand and Tongan disaster agencies.

Article

Understanding trace elements in lobster larvae for the benefit of aquaculture

The ornate spiny rock lobster is a highly prized and valuable seafood, and it is an attractive candidate for aquaculture. Understanding of how metals affect larval lobster development help inform whether dietary supplementation is required for healthy growth.

CAse study

Energy efficient electronics using Skyrmions

New technologies that reduce the energy use of electronics have significant economic potential for both New Zealand and Australia. Skyrmions are structural lattices that can be driven by external stimuli and provide a platform for low energy electronics.

Does your project deserve beamtime? Apply for access.

Any researcher in New Zealand can apply to use the Synchrotron and NZSG can help arrange access.

All enquiries about access to the Australian Synchrotron should be directed to NZSG’s Executive Officer, Dr Don Smith. Don will guide you through the process and put you in touch with the team at ANSTO.