Accelerator science showcased at international Symposium
Particle accelerators have numerous applications across many fields including fundamental research, healthcare, electronics, environment and energy but, despite the significant role that accelerators play in our daily lives, the field of accelerator science and technology remains largely unknown to most people.
An international Symposium 'Accelerators for Science and Society' that took place at the Liverpool Arena and Convention Centre on Friday 28 June 2019, aimed to inspire students with the possibilities of this rapidly evolving field and provided insight into the economic, scientific and societal benefits of particle accelerators. The event was hailed a great success with delegates comprising of 100 researchers from across Europe and 150 students and teachers from local high schools.
Renowned speakers such as Prof Maria Fasli (University of Essex), Dr Simon Jolly (UCL) and Dr Michael Doser (CERN) provided a unique insight into cutting-edge accelerator research, with a focus on areas that are being studied by experts in the Department of Physics at University of Liverpool. The presentations discussed the future of big data science, antimatter research and the links between particle physics research and cutting-edge cancer treatments.
In addition, international best-selling author and educator Curtis Jobling highlighted the importance of art and thinking creatively alongside studying STEM subjects and how this combination drives innovation across society.
All talks were live-streamed to institutions across Europe and are now available to watch via the event website.
The event was coordinated by the Head of the Liverpool Physics Department, Prof Carsten Welsch, who also leads the H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie training networks AVA and OMA, as well as the Liverpool Big Data Science Centre for Doctoral Training (LIV.DAT) which are behind the event.
Early stage researchers from all three training initiatives presented their research in the form of posters and gave young delegates the opportunity to experience science up close through a number of interactive demonstrations that the scientists developed specifically for this event.
Image: Young delegates had the opportunity to experience science up close.
Professor Welsch said: “Liverpool has played a leading role in training the next generation of accelerator scientists and technologists over the last decade and continues to produce a pipeline of experts that go on to work around the world in both academia and industry. It is fantastic to see the outstanding research results that have stemmed from our three most recent training initiatives and how our Fellows engaged with the next generation of scientists and engineers at the Symposium.
The speakers provided an excellent overview of the many applications that particle accelerators have made possible in our everyday lives. Science is ultimately a global endeavour and our Fellows are perfect ambassadors for the collaborative and interdisciplinary skills that modern research requires.”
More information and all talks can be accessed via the event homepage.