MC-PAD · Marie Curie Training Network on Particle Detectors

The challenging questions of particle physics, like the origin of mass, the existence of new forms and states of matter, can only be addressed in technically complex and expensive large-scale research facilities. Well coordinated international effort is required to design, build and operate world class infrastructure comprising accelerators of highest energy and/or intensity and detector systems of unprecedented performance. Frequently the quality of the results and hence the progress of science is limited by the quality of the detectors and by the level of understanding of their characteristics and performance. Future detectors need to cap current state-of-the art performance in terms of position and energy resolution, number and density of read-out channels, dynamic range and noise, speed, radiation tolerance, robustness and reliability. We propose an Initial Training Network on Particle Detectors which spans 4 years. A multi-site network has been formed which comprises 9 academic participants, 3 associated industrial partners and 2 associated academic partners from 9 European countries. It will provide extraordinary training opportunities to young researchers (physicists and engineers) in the field of radiation detectors. The proposed Training Network will play an essential role to train a new generation of excellent detector scientists which is required to conceive, design, build and exploit the next generation of experiments which may come into operation in the years 2012-2020. Internationally renowned supervisors will provide scientific and technical training at the highest level. The trainees will be integrated in existing collaborative structures and profit from a unique spectrum of expertise and facilities available in the network. Complementary training, involving particularly our industrial partners, e.g. in communication skills, project and financial management, is an integral part of the programme.