Twenty years ago EPDIC was held on the board of the Lake of Geneva. In 2026, EPDIC is returning to Switzerland, this time to the heart of the Swiss Alps, which serve as a powerful symbol that resonates globally across various contexts.
Crans-Montana is located in the vibrant valley region of Valais, close to the French-German language border, the borders of Italy and France, as well as to the Lake of Geneva Region. The recent past has seen this part of Western Switzerland transform into a centre of excellence in the sustainability, health and clean tech sectors, playing a significant role in promoting research, education and innovation in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
Crans-Montana was founded when two friends, Louis Antille and Michel Zufferey, who lived down in the valley, fell in love with this majestic plateau, and opened the first hotel, Le Parc, in 1893, marking the beginning of the history of the entire region. The exceptional air quality, sunshine and natural beauty has ever since attracted visitors from all over the world, pairing an urban lifestyle with a varied and charming natural setting. The small size and excellent infrastructure of Crans-Montana make it a conference-friendly city which will provide the perfect setting for fruitful exchange and get-together during the days of EPDIC19.
The EPDIC is a cornerstone in the field of powder diffraction, and has long served as a vital platform for the exchange of scientific knowledge on the broader topics spanning materials science and the advances of experimental techniques. EPDIC brings together leading experts, early career researchers as well as industry professionals, and contributes significantly to strengthening the global community in this field. We look forward to spending these days with you enjoying an exciting scientific program, surrounded by breath-taking panoramic views.
Hoping everybody will enjoy an interesting conference and a pleasant stay, it is our great pleasure to welcome all of you in Crans Montana.
Pascal Schouwink Jasminka Popovic
Chair of the EPDIC19 Chair of the EPDIC Committee