This research group is active since 1995 at the University of Camerino and has gradually expanded the core activities, originally based on the development of X-ray absorption spectroscopy.  Current activities are broadly based on the development and application of advanced characterization techniques to basic and applied materials. Techniques include x-ray fluorescence, x-ray diffraction Raman scattering and electron microscopy carried out in our laboratories, as well as widely recognized activities at large-facilities exploiting synchrotron, X-FEL and neutron sources.