F4E and CERN join forces in fusion energy and particle physics

Fusion for Energy (F4E) and CERN are joining forces to drive research and innovation forward for large scientific experiments. The Director of F4E, Marc Lachaise, and CERN’s Director for Accelerators and Technology, Mike Lamont, have signed an agreement that will foster collaboration in areas of common interest. The new framework will enable the two Big Science organisations to combine their expertise and capabilities, to address mutual challenges in the areas of fusion energy and particle physics.

Through this partnership they will accelerate progress in fields like superconducting magnets, cryogenics, or advanced materials, which feature in particle accelerators and fusion reactors. In the case of F4E, the know-how acquired is expected to feed directly into ITER and IFMIF- EVEDA, supporting the delivery of systems. In fact, the two parties have already launched a first project under the new framework, focusing on the development of high-field solenoids.

CERN is a leading research centre located in Geneva, Switzerland, home of the largest and most powerful particle accelerator in the world. F4E is the EU’s organisation providing Europe’s contribution to ITER, the biggest fusion device to date, amongst other projects in the field. The size and nature of these experiments offer tremendous opportunities for synergies. The agreement is broad enough and includes collaboration in engineering design, material and component testing, project planning or R&D in physics and technology.

Both entities have worked together in the past through specific agreements in the fields of radiation damage and radio frequency couplers. This new partnership cements this trust and provides a legal and operational basis for more collaboration. F4E and CERN will be able to pool their world-class expertise via exchanges of personnel, knowledge and data.

“Through this cooperation agreement we will strengthen F4E’s capacity to deliver. In parallel, we will address and answer complex questions in the fields of fusion energy and particle physics. By working together, we will capitalise on the excellence, talent, and expertise resulting from large-scale international projects managed respectively by the two organisations. This collaboration is vital for the advancement of fusion energy together with that of science. It is a fantastic step in the right direction,” commented the Director of F4E, Marc Lachaise.

“In turbulent times, delivering large-scale scientific infrastructure calls for shared vision, technical synergy, and organisational resilience. CERN and F4E face many of the same challenges—from advanced magnet technologies to sustainable project execution over decades. This agreement reinforces a partnership built on mutual interests and long-term commitment. It was a pleasure to welcome Marc Lachaise and the F4E team to CERN, and to chart some steps forward together,” stated the Director for Accelerators and Technology at CERN, Mike Lamont.