Workshops

Join us at the PEOPLE Conference 2025 for these engaging workshops led by distinguished experts in their respective fields.

X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS): A Molecular Scale Element-Specific Approach in Environmental Sustainability

Led by: Dr. Ning Chen, Senior Scientist and Beamline Responsible, Canadian Light Source (CLS)

One of the greatest challenges in environmental sustainability research is achieving an element-specific molecular-scale understanding of complex systems. X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), one of the most widely applied synchrotron techniques, offers a unique capability to probe local structural environments at the nano to sub-nano scale with an exceptional resolution of ~0.02Å.

This workshop will introduce XAS to the environmental sustainability research community, covering its principles, unique resolution and capabilities, and diverse applications in studying crystalline and amorphous systems. Participants will gain insights into the synchrotron-based XAS facilities available in Canada, particularly at the Canadian Light Source, and explore a roadmap for XAS-driven research.

The session will be structured into two parts:

Introduction to XAS: Principles, capabilities, and case studies highlighting its role in environmental sustainability research.
Advanced Applications: In-depth case studies demonstrating XAS’s ability to detect structural variations at the nano scale, including single-atom surface interactions, element coexisting mechanisms, polymorphism effects, and speciation in complex systems.

This workshop is designed for researchers in environmental sustainability seeking to expand their analytical toolbox with synchrotron-based XAS techniques. No prior experience in XAS is required, and all are welcome to participate.

Indigenous Engagement in Research

Led by: Dale Booth, President & Founder, Innovation 7

Since 2015, Indigenous communities have become increasingly involved in major infrastructure projects, policy development, and research initiatives. This shift has been driven by the Federal and provincial governments’ commitment to reconciliation, new inclusion policies, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, which provide clear guidelines on fostering long-term, respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples.

As a result, Indigenous communities have developed engagement protocols and consultation processes to ensure their voices are heard in projects that take place in their traditional territories—including research initiatives. However, with a growing number of engagement requests, researchers must approach communities with cultural awareness, clear communication, and a well-structured methodology.

This interactive workshop will cover:

Current engagement techniques used by Indigenous communities and best practices for building meaningful partnerships.
How to position research projects to gain community interest and consent in a way that aligns with Indigenous priorities.
Developing an action plan for effective outreach, including a hands-on exercise to create a baseline engagement strategy for real-world scenarios.
Challenges and solutions in Indigenous recruitment for research projects, including lessons learned from past experiences.
Open discussion & Q&A session to address participant questions and concerns.

By the end of this workshop, participants will have a deeper understanding of culturally appropriate engagement strategies, practical tools for structuring their research approach, and insights into how universities and research institutions can build stronger, mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities.

This session is ideal for researchers, academics, policymakers, and professionals looking to enhance their engagement strategies and ensure their projects contribute to positive, long-term partnerships.

These workshops offer a unique opportunity to learn from leading experts and engage in meaningful discussions. Stay tuned for session details and potential additional offerings!

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