MC-PAD · Marie Curie Training Network on Particle Detectors

Marie Curie Training Network on Particle Detectors

MC-PAD is a FP7 multi-site Initial Training Network on particle detectors in physics experiments. It comprises nine academic participants, three industrial partners and two associated academic partners. The MC-PAD network provides excellent training opportunities to young researchers in the field of radiation detectors for the next generation of particle physics experiments and other applications. The academic network participants are major European High Energy Physics research labs or large research institutes with excellent international reputation and a proven long standing record in the design and fabrication of state-of-the-art particle detectors. The industrial partners are European small to medium size high tech companies which have a leading role in their field. The network covers a unique set of competencies, expertise, infrastructures and training possibilities. The network has recruited 22 young researchers who are keen to participate in the development and application of advanced particle detectors. The young researchers were based for most of their time at one of the participating institutes, supervised by internationally recognized experts and had access to state-of-the-art equipment. Most of the research projects were carried out within international collaborations and involved typically two or three participating institutes. The MC-PAD researchers regularly visited the partner labs and facilities and actively exchanged knowledge, know how and best practices. In a few cases, also direct exposure to industry environment could be organized. A total of six dedicated training events (typically 3 days long) were organized for all network researchers and a number of invited external young reseachers. Formal training courses in relevant and related fields were complemented by hands-on lab training. The research and training activities of the MC-PAD network led to the expected progress and in many cases exceeded the expectations. The R&D work is documented in a large number of peer reviewed publications, technical notes and internal reports. The results were presented at international conferences, collaboration meetings and other events at national and international levels. 15 of the Early-Stage Researchers were involved in PhD studies but only one has already received the doctor degree. The other 14 expect receiving their PhD degrees in the coming 12 months. This fact reflects the fact that the typical duration of a PhD in our field is 4 years. Substantial contributions have been made to several major European flagship projects, among them the LHC and its upgrade projects, the International Linear Collider and the FAIR facility. Our Researchers worked on new detector principles, components, micro electronics as well as simulation and analysis software. Also detector applications in medical imaging were included. The network has trained young instrumentation experts. Several of them have the potential to become key people in these international projects. Over the duration of the network, the recruited ESRs and ERs have gained a high degree of maturity, able to present and critically judge their own and the work of others. The numerous network training events were excellent occasions to learn about related fields, discuss the other's projects and visit unique facilities and research infrastructures. Also personal contacts, relations and friendships growing among the Researchers made the network more than just a group of individuals with similar interests. The MC-PAD training network is considered by all participants as a great success and experience. We are grateful to the European Commission for managing and adequately funding the Marie Curie programme. The MC-PAD website: http://www.cern.ch/mc-pad

Data: CORDIS, © European Union