IRUG16: 16th Conference and Workshop of the Infrared and Raman User’s Group

Applications are open for the IRUG16 pre‑conference workshop on October 6, 2026. [Link to workshop application]

Dr. Anikó Bezur, Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, Yale University
Dr. Liora Mael, University of Delaware
Develop a deeper understanding of reflectance-FTIR capabilities in contrast to other modes. Problem solve and troubleshoot common data collection and interpretation errors through theory and hands-on activities. The workshop is designed for scientists and conservators with foundational knowledge of vibrational spectroscopies, experience collecting and interpreting reflectance-FTIR data, and actively using it (or planning to) in their work. $50. Limited to 20 participants. Application deadline is July 1. Applicants will be notified whether they have been accepted after July 1 and will receive a link to register. Workshop participants are strongly encouraged to attend the IRUG16 conference. 

October 7–9, 2026

The program will include oral and poster presentations; networking events; time for museum, garden, and gallery visits; and an optional tour of the Winterthur conservation department.

There will be an optional conference workshop on Tuesday, October 6.

Full program schedule coming June 2026.

Dr. Roger Turner | Spectroscopy as Cultural Heritage

The history of spectroscopy is much more than a timeline of landmark papers and advances in instrumentation. Scientific instruments can also be markers that people use to organize themselves and define systems of meaning. What does spectroscopy look like when we view it as a set of cultural practices and social groups? While celebrated figures like Bunsen and Kirchhoff still matter, a social and cultural perspective reveals significant contributions by less famous, and sometimes minoritized, individuals. Women played crucial roles by coordinating groups to create shared community resources, like Clara Smith Craver’s work in building spectra libraries. Communities of spectroscopists were created through short courses like the Fisk University Infrared Spectroscopy Institute founded by James Raymond Lawson and Nelson Fuson. The Science History Institute’s collections offer a window on spectroscopy’s surprising and playful cultural heritage, from a 1954 photo of brawling spectrophotometer salesmen to an aftermarket label warning users about an NMR spectrometer’s “Emotional Crisis Detector.”

Biography

Dr. Roger Turner is the curator of instruments and artifacts at the Science History Institute in Philadelphia. He enjoys translating the history of science for different audiences, from chemists at Pittcon to museum visitors and students of all ages. He has recently written museum displays that situate spectrophotometry as part of the Institute’s temporary exhibits Downstream and Lunchtime. He holds a Ph.D. in the History and Sociology of Science from the University of Pennsylvania

Wilmington, Delaware, is conveniently located just 40 minutes from Philadelphia International Airport and is served by rail connections to major cities along the East Coast. Winterthur is located about 6 miles north of Wilmington at 5105 Kennett Pike (Rt. 52), Winterthur, DE 19735.

Getting to Winterthur

Complimentary shuttle buses will run daily between the Wilmington Riverfront and Winterthur for all registered attendees. There will be one morning shuttle trip to deliver attendees to the conference and one evening shuttle to return attendees to Wilmington Riverfront.

If you prefer to drive, ample free parking is available at Winterthur. Directions can be found online.

Please note that Winterthur is not accessible by public transportation. Attendees with accommodations other than the Wilmington Riverfront will need a car or will need to rely on rideshare services or taxis for easy and reliable transportation to the site (e.g., Delaware Express).

International attendees who require a temporary U.S. nonimmigrant visa should apply as early as possible, as processing times vary. Details on visa requirements and current wait times are available from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. General information can be found at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html.

Accommodations

Options are available for short-term housing rentals in Wilmington and the nearby area. Below are hotel options for Wilmington and the Wilmington Riverfront.

Wilmington

• Sheraton Suites Wilmington Downtown
  422 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, DE 19801
• Courtyard Wilmington / Downtown by Marriott
  1102 West St., Wilmington, DE 19801
• DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown
  700 N. King St., Wilmington, DE 19801
• Residence Inn Wilmington Downtown
  1300 North Market St., Wilmington, DE 19801

Riverfront

• Hyatt Place Wilmington Riverfront
  760 S. Justison St., Wilmington, DE 19801
• Westin Wilmington
  818 Shipyard Dr., Wilmington, DE 19801

If you will not have a car, we suggest staying in Wilmington or the Wilmington Riverfront for access to restaurants and public transportation. The conference will provide shuttle service to and from Winterthur for all attendees staying at the Wilmington Riverfront.