Time-resolved structural studies at synchrotrons and X-ray free electron lasers: opportunities and challenges

► Recent advances in time-resolved Laue diffraction studies of light-sensitive proteins. ► Recent advances in time-resolved wide angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) studies of light-sensitive proteins. ► Proof-of-principle demonstrations of serial femtosecond crystallography using X-ray free electron laser radiation. ► Reflection on the challenges ahead for time-resolved diffraction and scattering studies at X-ray free electron lasers.