872. Wilhelm and Else Heraeus-Seminar

 December 8th – 10th, 2026 

Electron holography is an interferometric technique in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) that enables quantitative reconstruction of the phase of an electron wave after interaction with a specimen. As the phase carries information on electrostatic and magnetic fields, electron holography provides access to material properties beyond conventional intensity-based imaging.

ECHO (EleCtron Holography in Optics) is the 872. Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Seminar and aims to strengthen the conceptual understanding of phase-sensitive imaging and accelerating methodological innovations by bringing together leading experts in electron holography and emerging perspectives from X-ray holography.

The program combines invited lectures, contributed presentations, hands-on training, live microscope sessions, and tutorials on phase reconstruction. By lowering barriers to entry and fostering cross-community exchange, ECHO supports the next generation of researchers and promotes innovation in quantitative phase imaging.

A central component is dedicated practical training, including TEM operation and data reconstruction exercises in both electron and X-ray holography. This provides direct experience with advanced electron holography instrumentation, complements the lecture program, and strengthens methodological skills, with particular emphasis on early-career researchers.

ECHO is primarily aimed at PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, who will gain exposure to state-of-the-art methods and instrumentation. Established researchers are invited to contribute perspectives on current limitations and future directions in the field.

 

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Would you like to learn about quantitative phase imaging and advanced holography techniques? Join ECHO and gain exclusive insights into the cutting-edge world of electron and X-ray holography. This program offers PhD students and postdoctoral researchers a unique opportunity to explore key methods and technologies, including:

Electron Holography
X-ray Holography
Quantitative Phase Imaging
Phase Reconstruction Techniques
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) 
Data Reconstruction Workflows
Advanced Imaging Instrumentation
Live Microscope Sessions
Hands-on Training Exercises
Cross-Community Scientific Exchange

 

WHAT WE PROVIDE

Admission is free of charge but subject to abstract approval. The program includes:

  • Accommodation (single room with breakfast) in the B&B Hotel Düren
  • Shuttle bus between FZJ and B&B
  • Coffee breaks & lunches as indicated in the program
  • Poster Session with fingerfood offering the chance to present your work and engage with experts from various sectors (including best poster award)
  • The chance to be chosen for an oral presentation (15 min)
  • Presentations led by renowned scientific experts and top researchers
  • Site visits of FZJ institutes, including the Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons (ER-C)
  • Social Evening at a Restaurant

Travel to / from the hotel has to be organized and paid at your own expenses.