In this section
Calls for access to ISIS
ISIS issues two facility access calls per year in spring and autumn, known as 'Direct Access'. See below for details on current and upcoming calls.
Current Call (26-2)
Call for access now open
Applications for TS1 and TS2 instruments are invited, however please note:
- HRPD, ChipIR and SURF are not available this call.
- There is limited availability on EMU, HiFi and MuSR: Users requiring these instruments are particularly encouraged to speak to the instrument team prior to submission.
Call deadline is 17:00 BST Monday 20 April 2026
- Access likely to be scheduled from November 2026
- Access panel meetings will take place 3-4 June 2026, with results to PIs expected by early July 2026
Please speak to a relevant instrument scientist before submitting your proposal.
An experimental team must come to ISIS to perform the experiment. Please ensure you have an experiment team able to come physically to ISIS before submitting a proposal.
If experimental time on multiple instruments is required, please submit a separate proposal application for each.
ISIS has a particular focus on neutron and muon techniques for energy materials research in this access call. There are a wide-range of applications in this area – see here for details.
Terms and Conditions for access
Terms and Conditions, along with associated policies and guidance, outlining the rules and responsibilities you agree to when using our services.
Guidelines for writing a good proposal science case
Beamtime allocations are highly competitive and in high demand. Explore guidance, tips, and templates to help you write a strong and successful proposal.
Experimental support
See what support is available during your experiment, including sample environment equipment and laboratories.
Use of AI in writing proposals
If artificial intelligence (AI) is used to write any part of your proposal or science case, you must declare this. See here for our policy on the use of AI.
Future calls
Round 27-1
Due to a planned long shutdown (approximately six months) in 2027 there will be no access call issued in autumn 2026.
Round 27-2
Call will be issued in March 2027 with a deadline for proposal access applications in April 2027.
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)
