An innovative electron radiotherapy technology
Many breakthrough applications in the medical field have resulted from developments in particle physics research. One such example is the use of very high-energy electrons (VHEE) for a frontier radiotherapy technique called FLASH radiotherapy, a highly targeted cancer treatment, capable of reaching deep into a patient’s body with fewer side-effects than traditional radiotherapy.
In September 2020, CERN and Switzerland’s Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) announced their collaboration to develop the conceptual design of an innovative radiotherapy facility that would deliver high radiation doses in milliseconds instead of minutes. The goal being to exploit the so-called FLASH effect, wherein radiation doses administered over short time periods appear to damage tumours more than healthy tissue, potentially minimising harmful side-effects.
In June 2021, CHUV and the ISREC Foundation announced that funding had been secured, thanks to the financial support of the Biltema Foundation for the next phase of the design and construction of the facility.
In 2022, CERN, the CHUV and THERYQ (ALCEN Group, France) signed an agreement for the development of the device, which will be based at CHUV and is expected to be operational within two years. First clinical trials planned for 2025.
Using the CLIC high-performance linear electron accelerator technology, we designed a facility which is capable of treating large and deep-seated tumours in the very short timescales needed for FLASH therapy- Walter Wuensch, project leader at CERN
This pioneering installation will capitalise on CERN breakthrough accelerator technology and will be based on the high-gradient accelerator technology developed for the proposed CLIC electron–positron collider. Various research teams have been performing their biomedical research related to VHEE and FLASH at the CERN Linear Electron Accelerator for Research (CLEAR), one of the few facilities available for characterising VHEE beams.
This project is partly funded by CERN's Medical Applications budget since 2020 for a duration of two years.
For more information:
- Learn more about this success story: Adapting CLIC tech for FLASH therapy, CERN Courier, 15 December 2020.
- Learn more about the FLASH technology: Very high-energy electron for cancer therapy, CERN Courier, 15 December 2020.
Future Mobility
CERN is a large and incredibly complex infrastructure, requiring the efficient operation and control of huge amounts of data, devices and systems – many of which rely on technologies relevant to mobility. CERN’s knowhow related to ultrafast machine learning has already resulted in interest from the mobility industry. In addition, many modes of transportation see a shift towards electrification. In the future, even airplanes and large ships might benefit from electric motors. These ambitions can possibly benefit from the CERN knowhow related the use of superconductive materials and components, because of the associated low energy losses.
(Photo by Serena Wong on Unsplash)
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Energy
CERN’s accelerator technologies can contribute to improved structural monitoring, and are relevant for energy resource management in infrastructures and networks, from beginning to end of life. For example, CERN has developed powerlines, capable of transporting huge amount of electricity in a cable that is cooled at cryogenic temperatures. Also, CERN has developed tools and advanced modelling software to help manage radioactive materials and waste, which may be useful in nuclear energy applications.
(Image: Cava)
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Environmental monitoring
CERN’s particle detectors contain some of the most powerful imaging tools in the world. Around the CERN accelerator complex, unique devices precisely monitor and control the operational environment. For example, CERN has developed a technology to monitor radon gas, and also some of its software tools have found its way into applications to connect sensors to monitor air quality.
(Photo by Gabriel Jimenez on Unsplash)
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Explore other CERN competences and technologies on kt.cern
Back to CERN, STFC & UK industry.
Software solutions for autonomous driving
Zenseact (formerly Zenuity), a company developing software solutions for automotive safety and autonomous driving (AD), has become the first to team up with CERN in the fields of fast machine learning.
A fundamental challenge in the development of AD cars is the fast interpretation of the huge quantities of data generated in normal driving conditions. CERN has approached this challenge in the context of physics data acquisition, by using Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) hardware that can execute complex decision-taking algorithms in microseconds. The collaboration between Zenuity and CERN aims to leverage this knowledge using FPGAs for fast machine learning applications that allow AD cars to reach fast decisions and make predictions more quickly.
(Image Credit: Zenseact)
Development in Quantum Detectors
Quantum Detectors, a spin-off from the Medipix Collaboration, was founded to promote a wider exploitation of detectors developed for synchrotron radiation, LASER and other large scale facility applications. Their product, the Merlin photon counting detector system is based on the Medipix3 ASIC. Recently they have adapted the Merlin for electron microscopy applications, in collaboration with the University of Glasgow.
CERN experts shared their expertise on machine learning with Sanofi Pasteur
A team of experts from CERN shared their expertise on machine learning with Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines business unit of Sanofi, a global life sciences company.
A four-day training course tailored to address topics specifically of interest to Sanofi-Pasteur, with the aim of improving vaccine production. The course was built around ROOT, the data analysis framework used to analyse HEP data, and the Toolkit for Multivariate Data Analysis (TMVA), a library of associated machine learning algorithms. The main objective of the course was to apply novel machine learning techniques to various vaccine production challenges that had proven hard to solve using conventional methods.
Explore more stories of successful collaborations at kt.cern
Back to Innovate with CERN.
CERN experts shared their expertise on machine learning with Sanofi Pasteur
A team of experts from CERN shared their expertise on machine learning with Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines business unit of Sanofi, a global life sciences company.
A four-day training course tailored to address topics specifically of interest to Sanofi-Pasteur, with the aim of improving vaccine production. The course was built around ROOT, the data analysis framework used to analyse HEP data, and the Toolkit for Multivariate Data Analysis (TMVA), a library of associated machine learning algorithms. The main objective of the course was to apply novel machine learning techniques to various vaccine production challenges that had proven hard to solve using conventional methods.
Software solutions for autonomous driving
Zenseact (formerly Zenuity), a company developing software solutions for automotive safety and autonomous driving (AD), has become the first to team up with CERN in the fields of fast machine learning.
A fundamental challenge in the development of AD cars is the fast interpretation of the huge quantities of data generated in normal driving conditions. CERN has approached this challenge in the context of physics data acquisition, by using Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) hardware that can execute complex decision-taking algorithms in microseconds. The collaboration between Zenuity and CERN aims to leverage this knowledge using FPGAs for fast machine learning applications that allow AD cars to reach fast decisions and make predictions more quickly.
(Image Credit: Zenseact)
Bundesdruckerei works with CERN on future identity concepts and cryptography
Bundesdruckerei GmbH has started to work with CERN, the European Laboratory for Particle Physics on research exploring possible links between quantum physics, identities and trust, with a focus on how findings from quantum physics can be transferred to IT systems designed for security.
New approaches and concepts are to be developed in identity management and cryptography based on quantum mechanical phenomena.The aim is to actively prepare for the age of quantum computers and thus help to protect companies, organizations and citizens. The goal is to find ways in which quantum mechanical functions can be used to develop a secure digital identity that is also easy to use.
(Image credit: Jacqueline Macou from Pixabay)
Explore more stories of successful collaborations at kt.cern
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Digital Solutions for Tomorrow’s Industry – Industrial Controls, Big Data Management, Analytics, and Machine Learning
CERN’s ambitious scientific endeavours are driving developments for faster, smarter, safer and more reliable systems across the Organization’s complex infrastructure and in the experiments. The next machine and detector upgrade will result in a torrent of raw data that needs to be filtered, and will increase the performance demands, which require improved, smarter controls, monitoring, and maintenance protocols. In addition, reducing human interventions in hazardous environments and preparing for future accelerators are also important priorities. Application of machine learning and deep learning techniques to meet the above challenges are part CERN’s experts’ toolkit.
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Green Technologies – Future Mobility, Energy, and Environmental Monitoring
CERN is a large and incredibly complex infrastructure, requiring the efficient operation and control of huge amounts of data, devices and systems – many of which rely on technologies relevant to mobility.For example, in designing superconductive devices, CERN has unique design knowhow and prototyping experience, leveraging knowledge of material properties and in-house developed simulation and modelling software.
CERN’s accelerator technologies can contribute to improve structural monitoring, and are relevant for energy resource management in infrastructures and networks, from beginning to end of life. CERN’s particle detectors contain some of the most powerful imaging tools in the world, and around the CERN accelerator complex, unique devices precisely monitor and control the operational environment.
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Advanced Materials – High Performance Applications in Harsh Environments
Machines at CERN have to operate reliably for decades in challenging environments, including extremes of temperature, radiation, vacuum and magnetism. CERN experts have developed knowledge in the selection, specification, development and application of materials, processes and devices to meet these demanding requirements.
An important part of CERN’s activities in this domain involves the characterisation and analysis of materials for quality control. For example, CERN’s capability to perform mechanical tests at cryogenic temperatures is not commonly found elsewhere. Such know-how is relevant and can contribute to, for example, the current efforts in liquid hydrogen storage.
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Working without environmental sustainability is not a choice. The global environmental situation demands that we quickly need to find new tools and techniques to help us move our businesses towards greater sustainability whilst remaining globally competitive.
On 30 September 2021, CERN and STFC are organising a virtual event for British companies with an ambition to impact environmental sustainability. Participation is by invitation only.
The event will bring together the sharpest minds from the world of cutting-edge technology and frontier science at CERN and STFC and the innovation and expertise of UK industry to:
- Articulate the challenges faced by UK industry, both small and large, in driving towards environmental sustainability and showcase new and innovative UK technologies in this area
- Discuss how the resources, technologies and capabilities within the wider CERN community could contribute towards the drive for environmental sustainability
- Explore the potential for collaboration and innovation between CERN and UK businesses in the realm of environmental sustainability
Deadline to register: 8 September 2021
There will be an opportunity for UK businesses to have one-to-one meetings with CERN technical experts following the event.
Organisers
UKRI-STFC
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and is the largest public funder of research and innovation in the UK. UKRI’s mission is to convene, catalyse and invest in close collaboration with others to build a thriving, inclusive research and innovation system that connects discovery to prosperity and public good.
UKRI brings together nine disciplinary research councils, one of which is the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), which supports research in astronomy, physics, space science and operates world-class research facilities for the UK. STFC is responsible for the coordination of the UK’s involvement in CERN, through which the UK secures far-reaching benefits including participation in world-leading scientific programmes and international collaboration networks, knowledge transfer, commercial contracts, and training and employment opportunities. Read more at https://stfc.ukri.org
CERN
Physicists and engineers at the European Organization for Nuclear Research use the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter – fundamental particles. The particles are made to collide at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how the particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.
CERN’s mission is: to provide a unique range of particle accelerators that enable research at the forefront of human knowledge, to perform world-class research in fundamental physics, to unite people from all over the world, and to push the frontiers of science and technology, for the benefit of all.
CERN technologies, and the human expertise associated with them translate into positive impact on society in many different fields. They can help you solve your challenges in multiple areas like aerospace, medical & biomedical, industry 4.0, cultural heritage, safety and towards a better planet. CERN’s Knowledge Transfer group engages with experts in science, technology and industry in order to create opportunities for the transfer of CERN’s technology and know-how.
Contact
For general questions related to the event, please contact
Aurelie Pezous
Email: aurelie.pezous@cern.ch
Richard Farrow
Email: richard.farrow@stfc.ukri.org
For questions related to event registration, please contact
Helen Dixon-Altaber
Tel: +41227678632
Email: helen.dixon-altaber@cern.ch
Do you work in industry? Would you like to tap into CERN technology and know-how to support your innovation? On 7 October 2021, BigScience.dk, the Danish Technological Institute and CERN will be organising a virtual event for Danish companies.
During the event, you will learn about how CERN accelerates innovation in society, including different ways for industry to collaborate with CERN. CERN is engaged in many state-of-the-art technologies and this event will offer you an overview of CERN’s unique expertise in the fields of digital solutions, green technologies, and advanced materials. In addition, there will be opportunities for one-to-one meetings with CERN representatives.
See event agenda and timetable here.
Organisers
BigScience.dk
BigScience.dk promotes Danish companies on the Big Science market and has 350 registered companies as members. The network was founded in 2010 by the Danish Technological Institute and the Technical University of Denmark and is financed by the Danish Agency for Higher Education and Science. Read more at https://www.bigscience.dk/english
Danish Technological Institute (DTI)
DTI supplies high technology solutions derived from current market requirements to the benefit of individual enterprises. A resilient Danish Technological Institute has ensured high-technology progress since 1906. The purpose is to help enterprises of all sizes remain competitive and innovative, and ensure the continued development, growth and wealth of society as a whole. DTI has around 1,000 specialists within advanced materials, agile production, agro-industry and environmental technology. DTI delivers more than 40,000 advanced technological solutions a year in response to specific needs and problems for more than 12,000 customers. Read more at https://www.dti.dk
The CERN Knowledge Transfer (KT) group
The CERN KT group aims to engage with experts in science, technology and industry in order to create opportunities for the transfer of CERN’s technology and know-how. The ultimate goal is to accelerate innovation and maximise the global positive impact of CERN on society. Read more at https://kt.cern
One-to-one meetings
The event offers also an opportunity to meet individually with CERN Knowledge Transfer Officers. During these meetings, companies are encouraged to shortly introduce their technical innovation challenges and ambitions, which can help CERN to identify areas of potential collaboration. To book a meeting, please get in touch with Helen Dixon-Altaber via email helen.dixon-altaber@cern.ch .
Questions
For any general questions related to the event, please contact
Nikolaj Zangenberg
Tel: +45 7220 2494
Email: nzg@teknologisk.dk
Helen Dixon-Altaber
Tel: +41227678632
Email: helen.dixon-altaber@cern.ch
We are inviting master's-level students, in teams or individual, for the CERN Entrepreneurship Student Programme (CESP) 2021.
About
The CERN Entrepreneurship Student Programme (CESP) is a 5 week programme for Master's-level students to develop entrepreneurial skills, to which you can apply as an individual or as a team (2 to 4 members).
During CESP, successful applicants will work on building a venture based on a solution for the problem they identified. This programme offers the opportunity to work with technical experts from CERN.
Due to the current COVID-19 travel restrictions, we are running CESP 2021 as a virtual programme.
CESP is supported by
Key Dates for 2021 Programme
Programme duration: 26 July 2021 to 27 August 2021
Application Deadline: 1 July, 2021
Notification of selected participants: 15 July, 2021
What is CESP ?
CESP consists of technical mentorship from relevant CERN experts, lectures by external speakers, 1:1 coaching from the CERN entrepreneurship team, external mentors, and finally a demo day to present your product/service.
CESP provides an opportunity to further develop a technology and
- Develop your business model
- Validate the assumptions of the business model
- Test and iterate those assumptions
- Discuss technical challenges with CERN experts
- Use CERN's network to meet with experts in your field of application
- 1:1 mentoring from CERN entrepreneurship team and external mentors
What is CESP not?
CESP covers lectures related to "Zero to One" challenges of setting up a company. To set expectations, the content is not original - you can find the content of the lectures and most of the details online. So, if you have studied Entrepreneurship as a major/minor in your degree programme - then you may know this already.
CESP is not a programme where you can take an "off-the-shelf" or "shrink wrapped" technology from CERN and then use it in your venture immediately. There are some technologies, especially software developed at CERN, that have full documentation and codebase on GitHub, but most of the technologies and know-how would need to be further modified to fit your needs.
Who can apply?
Currently enrolled master's-level students from anywhere in the world.
In order to qualify for a place in the programme you will need to meet the following requirements:
- You are at least 18 years of age on the start date of the programme.
- You are a full-time student at Master degree level, enrolled at a university or institution at least until the end of August 2021.
- Please note that candidates who are currently studying for a PhD are not eligible for this programme.
- You have a good knowledge of English.
- You have identified a problem you want to solve through the creation of a new venture.
Important information for you to know: Before applying, please read the full Terms and Conditions carefully for the programme, including information on selection process and commitments by participants. |
How to apply?
[Update: Applications closed]
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Either as an individual or as a team (4 participants max per team)
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Your CV (all team members' CVs if applying as a team), preferably in Europass format
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Project description (1 page minimum to 5 pages maximum)
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Create a video. Video instructions:
- 3 mins max
- What is the problem you are solving?
- Why is this a problem? Who have you checked this with - validation?
- What is your technical challenge?
- Who are your team members? 💡If all of you cannot be on the video due to the current pandemic, it is fine for one person to introduce the other
- Upload the items and fill the form by clicking on the 'Apply' button below. Please follow the naming convention for files as:
- CV = <Surname>_CV
- Project Description = <Teamname>_Project
- Video = <Teamname>_Video
💡If you have any questions or issues while uploading, please write to KT-entrepreneurship@cern.ch |