In the interests of international scientific advancement, synchrotron celebrity Dr X-ray Ted recently shared some of his most valuable professional secrets in an exclusive Lightspeed interview obtained through his manager Nicola Scarlett from CSIRO Minerals in Clayton.

Lightspeed: As a major contributor to international synchrotron relations, what is your proudest moment? Dr X-ray Ted: Declaring to the world at the 2007 Australian Synchrotron/ASRP User Meeting that 10BM1 (powder diffraction beamline) at the Aussietron is tops!

 Ted continues: This is closely followed by my time on the TEDDI (Tomographic Energy Dispersive Diffraction Imaging) beamline at Daresbury.

L: What can you tell us about your research achievements to date and your impact on the international synchrotron community?

X: My impact on the international community has been gentle - I am a 'soft' toy after all. My poster presentation many years ago at AXAA is still discussed in some quarters (admittedly those quarters which are rather dark and smell like beer...). I think it is safe to say though, that I left my mark on Daresbury in particular. However, since my little trip to the vet I don't have these urges anymore so the Aussietron should be safe.

L: What is your current research focus?

X: Continued characterisation of the novel deuterated compound: Tellurium-D Dysprosium Barium Sulphate (TeDDy Baryte). There has been a hiatus in this work due to theft of equipment on a recent field trip. That was the day the Teddy Bear had his pick nicked.

L: Who is your favourite synchrotron scientist and why?

X: Powder Diffraction Beamline Scientist: Kia Wallwork. I think we shared a few special moments at the Swiss Light Source two years ago. However, what happens at the synchrotron STAYS at the synchrotron...

L: What do you like most about visiting the Australian Synchrotron?

X: Kia Wallwork (sigh).

L: How do you like living in Melbourne? Was the move from Sydney to Melbourne a difficult one?

X: I wouldn't say it was difficult, more a little uncomfortable being packed in between the undies and socks of my close collaborator.

L: Does your busy schedule leave you any time for hobbies or sport?

X: I would like to play the piano but I have bearly any time to practise. That and the fact I have no fingers are currently limiting my ambitions in this direction.

L: What advice would you like to offer less-experienced synchrotron users?

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