ISIS for academics
The ISIS Neutron and Muon Source provides intense beams of neutrons and muons for researchers to explore the structure and properties of materials down to the atomic level, supporting studies in physics, chemistry, engineering, life sciences and more.
As a researcher, you will benefit not only from our cutting-edge technology but also from dedicated support infrastructure, including specialist sample environments and support laboratories. You will also enjoy the expertise of our staff and become part of a dynamic user community.
What access calls are open?
| Access route | Status | Call opens | Call closes | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Access | CLOSED | 2 March 2026 | 20 April 2026 | More information and to apply |
| Rapid Access | OPEN | Ongoing access | n/a | Apply here |
| Xpress Access | OPEN | Ongoing access | n/a | Apply here |
| Dutch Access | OPEN | 13 January 2026 | 17 February 2026 | Apply here |
How can ISIS support you?
We can guide you through the application process, and provide support before, during, and after your experiment.
FAQs
See here for what to do once your proposal has been approved for access to ISIS, including submitting a visit and the required safety assessments and tests
Support letters (for visa applications or institutional requirements) are automatically sent to all users based outside of the UK upon confirmation of your visit request. Please note that ISIS is unable to provide advice or guidance on visa applications — you must contact the relevant authorities in your home country for assistance.
This may be because they:
- Haven't registered with us yet
- Have registered with us using a different email address
- Need to update their privacy settings to allow themselves to be found by this search
Please contact the person you are looking for and ask them to register for a user account or check their registered email address or privacy settings
Experiment numbers will appear for selection when the experiment scheduling has been confirmed in our systems (check with your ISIS local contact)
You can also select 'add other purpose’. You can then type your experiment RB number and visit dates in the relevant fields.
Once a visit has been submitted it cannot be edited. Please send an email to the ISIS User Office detailing the changes that you require.
The experiment may not have been scheduled yet - the PI will receive an email to complete the ERA once scheduled. Only those listed as an investigator on the submitted proposal application are able to complete the ERA
If you think the experiment is already scheduled, or you are encountering a specific error, please send an email detailing the issue to the ISIS User Office
Of course! Check out our dedicated area for industry and commercial users
Contact the ISIS User Office
If you have any queries regarding access or your experiment please contact the ISIS User Office
Email: isisuo@stfc.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1235 445592 (ext 5592)
The User Office can be found in the Reception Building (R75) at the main STFC RAL site entrance
Office hours:
08:00 – 16:00 Monday – Thursday
08:00 – 15:00 Friday
Outside of normal office hours please contact the ISIS Main Control Room on:
+44(0)1235 446789 (ext 6789)