Imagine a world where beams of invisible particles race through massive machines, unlocking secrets of the universe and driving innovations in sustainability. This isn’t science fiction — it’s the reality of particle accelerator physics, and it’s the heart of my research. Particle accelerators are incredible machines that can accelerate charged particles to nearly the speed of light, guiding them along carefully designed paths using powerful magnets. These particles smash into targets, collide with each other, or are stored in storage rings, revealing clues about the fundamental building blocks of matter and enabling breakthroughs in everything from medicine to clean energy. Sometimes particle accelerators are used directly to treat patients. As we push these machines to deliver more powerful beams, new challenges arise. That is where my work comes in.

My focus is on understanding what happens when we increase the intensity of these beams, especially in high-power accelerators like the European Spallation Source (ESS). At these intensities, the interaction between charged particles becomes complex, affecting both the shape and behaviour of the beam. If we want to harness the full potential of these machines, we need to model and measure these effects. A key part of my research involves enhancing the tools used to simulate these intense beams. I work with a Python-based multi-particle simulation codes to create virtual models of particle beams, helping us predict what happens and what will happen inside the accelerator depending on different configurations. Simulations are, however, only part of the story, as we also need real-world data in order to refine our understanding. By comparing simulation results with measurements from diagnostic tools, we can benchmark our models and gain deeper insights into beam dynamics at high intensities in order to optimize accelerator performance and stability. An example of a beam diagnostic tools are Beam Position Monitors (BPMs) which detect the electric fields generated by the passing charged particles of the beam. I am investigating if BPMs can be used to measure the quadrupolar component of the beam, giving us insights into its shape and width without disturbing the beam itself.

Another exciting challenge is exploring ways to make the ESS particle accelerator even more powerful by compressing its proton pulses - essentially squeezing the particles closer together to produce brighter neutron beams for scientific experiments. To make this happen, I study the intricate complex dynamics of these compressed beams, evaluating space-charge effects (how particles repel each other) and developing new strategies to extract the beam in a smooth and controlled manner. In the end, my work is about helping these colossal machines operate with higher precision and more power, pushing the frontiers of science. Whether it is unraveling the mysteries of neutrinos, improving sustainability, enabling breakthroughs in medicine, or developing new technologies, the beams I study are driving discoveries that ripple across disciplines. Every step forward brings us closer to unlocking the full potential of these incredible machines.