Objectives

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Objectives of PCCr4 include:

  • Fostering Collaboration: PCCr4 aims to strengthen ties within the African crystallographic community and establish connections with the international crystallography community. By doing so, it hopes to foster a collaborative environment where ideas and resources can be shared freely.;
  • Enhancing Education and Skills: A key focus of the conference is to provide educational opportunities for young scientists and students. Workshops, lectures, and hands-on sessions are designed to equip the next generation of crystallographers with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their careers;
  • Promoting Interdisciplinary Research: Recognizing the wide-reaching applications of crystallography, PCCr4 encourages interdisciplinary research efforts. This approach highlights how crystallography intersects with various fields, including chemistry, physics, biology, and materials science, to solve complex challenges.;
  • Facilitating Technological Exchange: The conference will showcase the latest technologies and methodologies in crystallography, providing a platform for participants to learn about advanced equipment and software that can enhance their research;

Statement on Gender Balance for PCCr4


At PCCr4, we are dedicated to promoting crystallography across the African continent and ensuring equal opportunities for all participants, regardless of gender. In alignment with the IUCr's policy on gender balance, we have implemented several actions to support and encourage the participation of women in crystallography.

Drawing on the successful initiatives from previous conferences and feedback from organizing committees, we aim to create a program that reflects gender diversity and inclusion. Specifically, our approach includes the following measures :​

  • Plenary Lectures : We will ensure that male and female scientists deliver the plenary lectures;
  • Microsymposia presentations : We strive to achieve at least 50% female representation among the presenters in the microsymposia;
  • Bursary selection : The IUCr criteria for gender balance will be rigorously applied in selecting bursary recipients, prioritizing young scientists attending the meeting.

IUCr Scientific Freedom Policy Statement


The organizing committee of PCCr4 adheres to the fundamental policy of non-discrimination, affirming the right and freedom of scientists to engage in international scientific activities without regard to ethnic origin, religion, citizenship, language, political stance, gender, sex, or age, as per the Statutes of the International Council for Science. We commit to ensuring that no barriers exist at this conference that would prevent the participation of bona fide scientists.

By fostering an inclusive environment, we aim to support and promote the advancement of crystallography in Africa, reflecting our commitment to diversity and equality.