Learn more about the people that work with UKAEA and what they do.
In October UKAEA hosted the IAEA Fusion Energy Conference in London. In this interview, we meet Mr. Adam Danilowicz, a Fusion Research Intern at the IAEA, to gain insights into his contributions and the conference's significance.
Could you please elaborate on your role and responsibilities at IAEA?
As a Fusion Research intern at the IAEA’s Department of Nuclear Science and Applications over the past year, I have actively supported the agency's initiatives in the field of fusion research and its related scientific areas. The IAEA’s efforts that I support include the facilitation of conferences, workshops, outreach materials, consultancy, and technical meetings. These technical meetings convene experts from various countries, serving as a vital scientific platform for the exchange of information among member states. It is noteworthy that these meetings may further evolve into IAEA-supported coordinated research projects, uniting research institutions from member states in collaborative efforts on projects of mutual interest, and potentially leading to jointly authored IAEA publications.
In addition to helping organise technical meetings and assisting with book publications, I’ve been proud to engage in our outreach efforts such as hosting episodes of the IAEA’s Fusion Breakthroughs webinar series, where we give a platform for leading research to be presented to a live audience from the fusion community (new series of episodes soon to come!).
What's your involvement at the 29th Fusion Energy Conference?
My primary focus at the IAEA has been working on the Fusion Energy Conference (FEC). With a record-breaking number of over 850 synopses submitted for the conference, I've played a key role as the primary point of contact for the numerous authors contributing to the FEC. Additionally, I've provided support to the Technical Programme Committee, responsible for ranking contributions and structuring the conference program. I've also been involved in developing outreach materials for FEC 2023, including the latest conference brochure booklet, and co-hosting FEC’s informational webinars.
What are some of the notable developments and advancements in fusion energy that were discussed at FEC 2023?
This year’s fusion energy has been a platform for discussing numerous remarkable developments and advancements. These extend beyond international and national efforts, encompassing a growing involvement of the private sector within the industry. A noteworthy feature of IAEA's FEC 2023 is the introduction of a special 'Pathways to Fusion' session, which covers a wide range of topics, including fusion pathways, demonstration devices, timelines, engineering, integration, supporting facilities, risk assessment, partnership, and, significantly, commercialization.
In parallel to the conference programme, the IAEA has also released the publication of the first edition of the World Fusion Outlook This publication serves as an authoritative source of information and updates on fusion energy, aspiring to establish itself as a global reference for energy research and development, technology advancement, and the prospective deployment of fusion as a source of unlimited low carbon energy. Furthermore, the IAEA Director General has made a significant announcement regarding the formation of the World Fusion Energy Group, an initiative designed to convene scientists, engineers, policymakers, financiers, regulators, and representatives from civil society. The group's purpose is to foster a common understanding and establish credible pathways for the global deployment of fusion energy.
In what ways does FEC 2023 contribute to the advancement of fusion energy research on a global scale?
Fusion energy is currently at an exciting juncture, marked by significant scientific and technological breakthroughs, a surge in investor interest, and growing concerns about climate change mitigation. This heightened attention and enthusiasm from both institutions and the public have propelled the field of fusion research forward. FEC 2023, with its record number of contributions, represents the culmination of this growing optimism and community engagement.
In my view, the IAEA Fusion Energy Conference stands out for its unique ability to advance global fusion energy research. This biennial event has been a fixture since its inception in 1961, originally known as the 'Conference on Plasma Physics and Controlled Nuclear Fusion Research.'
What sets FEC 2023 apart is its inclusion of special panel sessions dedicated to crucial topics such as Women in Fusion, Energy Justice, Public Engagement, Inertial Fusion Energy, and the work of the IAEA. These additional sessions broaden the conference's scope and enable the fusion community to address global issues related to fusion more comprehensively.
How was your experience working with UKAEA for FEC?
Collaborating with UKAEA as the national host of FEC 2023 has been a truly enriching experience. The UKAEA has been an indispensable partner, contributing significantly to the success of this year's conference. My personal journey working alongside the UKAEA team has been exceptionally positive. It has also been welcoming to see many scientific contributions from the UKAEA within the conference itself, which is a testament to the important role they play within the international fusion community.
In summary, my experience working with UKAEA for FEC 2023 has been characterised by fruitful collaboration and the commendable dedication of the UKAEA team to the fusion community's progress.
As the curtains draw on the 29th Fusion Energy Conference, it leaves in its wake a legacy of collaboration, discovery, and renewed determination in the quest for fusion energy. The insights and discussions that unfolded within the hallowed halls of this conference are sure to reverberate through the corridors of fusion research for years to come. Through the words of Mr. Adam Danilowicz, we gain a unique perspective on the profound impact of this event and the collective efforts required to propel fusion technology towards a sustainable future.