The ultimate goal of FLASHForward is to generate a plasma-accelerator module capable of boosting the energy of the free-electron-laser (FEL) facility in which the experiment is housed. In order to achieve this goal the plasma accelerator must be capable of: preserving the sublime beam quality of the FLASH front end; maximising the energy-transfer efficiency from driver to trailing beam; and operating at the high repetition rates and average powers required by photon-science.

The FLASHForward scientific plan addresses these three core pillars individually (see below figure) with the final product demonstrating them individually. Excellent and rapid progress has been made in the recent years since the experiment went into operation. Publication highlights can be found here.

FLASHForward is always looking for dynamic young scientists with an curiosity in the fundamental nature of science and an interest in the next generation of accelerator facilities. If this sounds like you then please contact the FLASHForward Coordinator for more information on upcoming PhD Studentships and DESY Fellowships in the team.