This article describes the process leading up to the establishment of the Brazilian Sychrotron Light National Laboratory (LNLS), the first national laboratory open to the public. Special attention is given to the strategy and philosophy guiding the various phases of its implementation. Furthermore, the author will address the challenges facing the second phase of the LNLS, in which the Laboratório begins to consolidate its role as a world-class research institute.
synchroton; nanotechnology; biotechnology
