The research neutron source Hein Maier-Leibnitz (FRM II) at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is playing an important role in the investigation of mRNA nanoparticles similar to the ones used in the Covid-19 vaccines from vendors BioNTech and Pfizer. Researchers at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) used the high neutron flux available in Garching to characterize various formulations for the mRNA vaccine and thus to lay the groundwork for improving the vaccine’s efficacy.

NICOS is the link between the scientific instruments and visiting researchers during neutron experiments. The software, originally developed at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Center (MLZ), is now in demand worldwide and is increasingly expanding its user community.

The User Meeting 2021 showed that the users of the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum are very active even without neutrons. From new materials for lithium-ion batteries and cancer therapeutics made by FRM II to a new deuteration service at the MLZ, the more than 130 talks and posters offered a lot of innovation. And despite the digital format, personal exchange was possible in the interactive “Ask the Instrument” sessions.