Particle accelerators are often associated with groundbreaking scientific discoveries and large-scale research facilities, but their impact extends far beyond the walls of laboratories. Today, accelerator technologies are driving innovation in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, energy research, national security and space exploration. As engineering challenges become increasingly complex, the role of accelerator engineering has never been more important.
This theme sits at the heart of the upcoming Powering Discovery: The Future of Particle Accelerating event, hosted by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and supported by the IET Particle Accelerator Engineering Network (PAEN). Bringing together engineers, scientists, technicians and industry leaders, the event will showcase the technologies, applications and emerging trends shaping the next generation of accelerator systems.
More than big science
When many people think of particle accelerators, they picture vast research facilities used to explore the fundamental building blocks of matter. While these facilities remain vital to advancing scientific understanding, accelerators have become essential tools across a growing range of sectors. Attendees at the event will explore how accelerator engineering contributes to scientific research, industrial processes, energy applications and healthcare technologies.
Modern accelerators demand expertise from multiple engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers, software specialists, control systems experts, electronics engineers and technicians all play critical roles in developing and operating these highly sophisticated machines. This multidisciplinary nature makes accelerator engineering an exciting field for professionals looking to apply their skills to some of society's most ambitious technological challenges.
Supporting innovation through engineering excellence
The event's keynote address, delivered by Dr Roger Eccleston, Executive Director of National Laboratories and Head of Rutherford Appleton Laboratory at STFC, will explore the current landscape of large-scale accelerator facilities and the opportunities they present for future scientific and industrial advancement.
The programme then moves from strategy to implementation, with speakers covering the engineering challenges of developing next-generation high-power laser systems, the future direction of the UK National Ion Beam Centre, and the role of community and long-term planning in UK accelerator science.
Together, these talks provide a broad perspective on the sector, showcasing everything from cutting-edge accelerator technologies and facility development to the strategic decisions needed to support future growth. The afternoon panel discussion will build on these themes, inviting attendees to consider how the accelerator community can raise its profile and attract the talent, investment and collaboration needed over the next decade.
Behind the scenes at EPAC
A particular highlight of the event is the opportunity to tour the Extreme Photonics Applications Centre (EPAC) at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.
EPAC is developing next-generation high-power laser and accelerator technologies, focusing on applications with significant real-world impact. Its work supports advances in areas including advanced materials and manufacturing, medical and healthcare innovation, and technologies relevant to national security and the space sector.
The tour offers a rare opportunity to see how cutting-edge research is translated into practical solutions. For many attendees, seeing these technologies in operation provides a valuable perspective on how engineering innovation moves from concept to application.
Celebrating the contribution of technicians and early career engineers
Alongside discussions on future technologies, the event also highlights the people driving innovation through two awards: the Accelerator Early Career Engineer and Technician of the Year Prize. These awards recognise individuals who have made practical contributions that improve particle accelerator projects, whether by designing tools, refining procedures, modifying equipment or introducing more effective ways of working.
Open to technicians at any career stage and engineers within four years of graduation, the awards showcase how creativity, problem solving and continuous improvement can make projects better, faster, more cost effective and more scalable. By recognising these contributions, the prizes celebrate the vital role that both technicians and early career engineers play in advancing accelerator science and engineering.
Looking ahead
The future of particle accelerator engineering is full of opportunity. As technologies continue to evolve, accelerators will play an increasingly important role in addressing some of society's most pressing challenges, from advancing healthcare treatments to enabling new manufacturing techniques and supporting scientific discovery.
Powering Discovery: The Future of Particle Accelerators takes place on 16th September 2026 at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot. Registration is free, and attendees will have the opportunity to hear from leading experts, tour the EPAC facility and connect with professionals from across the accelerator community.
Powering discovery, The Future of Particle Accelerating
Will you be attending? Which aspect of particle accelerator engineering are you most interested in exploring?
Article by Ella Bolger, IET Particle Accelerator Engineering Technical Network