In mid-February, Frank Briscoe took up duties as F4E Director. He started his scientific career in 1971 and after spending three years with British Gas he then joined the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) to work on fission projects. From 1985, he became increasingly involved in the management of fusion activities and the supply of high technology equipment to third parties. From 1996, he managed all UKAEA operational activities at the Culham Science Centre including the fusion experiments MAST and from 2000 onwards, JET. Frank Briscoe was awarded an OBE in 2007 in recognition of his major contribution to international collaboration in fusion science. After leaving Culham in 2008, he led an independent assessment of the cost estimates of the ITER Organization for the construction of ITER.

His second day in office was marked by the first official visit of the delegation of the European Parliament’s Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) Committee where fusion was presented as part of a long-term energy mix in response to the increasing global demand and the need for steady supply. The opportunities ahead for European industry and SMEs together with a set of ideas compatible with the Small Business Act were also outlined. “Discussing with policy-makers the scientific and technological progress that we make together with the challenges that we face is an essential part of the dialogue with those who have a say on the European Union’s R&D priorities”. For Briscoe, the other step that we take through ITER is bringing science closer to industry. “ITER is at the cross-roads of many different technologies which will push forward know-how and foster cross-national collaboration in order to meet the manufacturing of the complex components. Our aim is to get industry involved in the most suitable way in order to feel ownership of the ITER project”.

Briscoe’s last point is best illustrated through the recent signature of contracts of the PF Coils fabrication building and the superconducting niobium-tin wire. The imminent signature of the Architect Engineer contract together with the launch of the tender for the supply of seven vacuum vessel sectors highlight Europe’s commitment to ITER and mark the beginning of a productive year. The new industry portal has also come along to offer a new dynamic platform for economic operators who would like to be informed about new calls, find out more about the progress of ongoing tenders and network with other companies.

“My aim is to work hand in hand with all ITER parties and with the support of F4E staff make sure that Europe will deliver” says Briscoe.