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

Hit enter to search or ESC to close For over three decades, the Infrared and Raman Users Group (IRUG) has been at the forefront of advancing spectroscopic analysis in cultural heritage conservation. Every few years, this vibrant international community gathers to share groundbreaking research, innovative techniques, and the latest developments in infrared and Raman spectroscopy for the analysis and conservation of cultural materials. In October 2026, IRUG 16 will bring together an international cohort of conservation scientists, conservators, researchers, and industry specialists working across diverse collections. This conference will showcase cutting-edge research and methodologies that are essential for advancing our understanding and preservation of cultural heritage materials. For inquiries about IRUG 16, please contact the organizing committee at [email protected]. For general IRUG information, visit www.irug.org. Register for the in-person conference Register for the virtual conference We aim to make IRUG16 accessible to all. If registration costs present a financial hardship, please contact us at [email protected] to explore available options. Applications are now closed for the IRUG16 pre‑conference workshop on October 6, 2026. Dr. Liora Mael, University of Delaware Dr. Anikó Bezur, Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, Yale University Dr. Greg Smith, Newfields 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. 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. Schedule subject to change. 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.” 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. Complimentary shuttle buses will run daily between the Hyatt Place 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 Exp