MLZ Conference 2026: Neutrons for Future Health

Neutron-based experiments are playing an increasingly vital role in advancing human health. By revealing hydrogen-bond networks and the organization of surrounding water in complex molecular assemblies, providing structural insights under true physiological conditions, and enabling the production of radioisotopes for medical imaging and cancer therapy, neutrons have become an indispensable tool for the investigation of functional biological systems.

A key strength of neutron techniques lies in their ability to exploit selective deuteration, allowing precise contrast matching of light elements in the sample, combined with their inherently non-destructive nature. Neutron scattering therefore offers unique opportunities to study materials for medical applications, unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying disease, and support the development of innovative drugs and therapeutic strategies.

As the conference intends to showcase how neutrons can contribute to further advances in this research area, the following sessions are planned:
- drug and vaccine delivery
- drug design
- bio-inspired materials
- modern diagnosis
- membrane biophysics
- investigation of the cause of diseases
- neutron therapy
- radioisotope production

The conference is aimed at both academia and industry.