North American Workshop on Laser Ablation 2019 (May 28, 29-31, Austin, Jackson School of Geosciences

Welcome to Austin and the 3rd North American Workshop on Laser Ablation (NAWLA). NAWLA covers the latest progress in laser-based microanalytical instrumentation, methods and applications, and provides opportunities for informal interaction among attendees. NAWLA is run by and for the user community with the mission to facilitate laser ablation knowledge transfer and promote community among laser ablation users. This abstract book constitutes a “snap shot” of laser ablation research in 2019, portraying the diverse research activities of the laser ablation community. A total of 77 abstracts (36 oral, 41 poster) were accepted, which contribute to 12 thematic sessions spread over three days. A noteworthy focus for NAWLA’19 is a special plenary session dedicated to latest advances in laser ablation data processing software. It should not be forgotten that NAWLA is a workshop, and thus endeavors to provide engaging opportunities for peer-to-peer learning. Group learning activities for NAWLA’19 include a day of pre-meeting workshop options, and a special workshop within the scientific program devoted to LA-ICP-MS reference materials. As with past workshops, scientific program sessions conclude each day with refreshments and informal time to visit the poster presentations and vendor exhibits, and talk among attendees. 2019 marks the third time for NAWLA to be held in the Jackson School of Geosciences. The workshop has grown each biennium, beginning with the inaugural 2-day 2015 meeting with 110 participants. At the conclusion of that workshop, attendees were asked en masse if they wanted to do “this” again and the overwhelming answer was “yes!”. When asked where, the unexpected response was “Austin” (it is remarkably easy to convince Canadians and upper mid-westerners to come to Austin in May). Following the 2.5 day 2017 meeting with 130 participants, NAWLA’19 now convenes for a full three-day scientific program, with 145 participants. The original intent for NAWLA (should it survive the inaugural trial) was, after establishing a solid organizational infrastructure, for it to move each biennium to a new host institution. We are happy to report that that infrastructure is now in-place and ready to be passed on to successive organizers. From analogy with the “Dude Ablates” bumper sticker, we have completed drilling of the final hole; NAWLA workshops are ready to roll! Pulling off a NAWLA workshop is always a group effort, and 2019 is no exception. The Scientific and Organizing committees developed the thematic sessions, coordinated logistics, and interfaced with prospective speakers and attendees. Several Jackson School of Geosciences personnel provided key assistance (Camille Barraza, Brian Zavala, Javier Valadez, Chris Stella). We are particularly grateful for the support of 10 vendor partners who helped sponsor the workshop. Obtaining this support early during the organizing process is essential for planning. This is the first year for having vendor exhibition booths at NAWLA, so we encourage attendees to visit them all and see what is new. We hope you have an engaging workshop and enjoy your stay in Austin. On behalf of the Scientific and Organizing committees, Nathan Miller