Illinois Accelerator Research Center
Accelerators and Society
Physicists have been inventing new types of accelerators to propel charged particles to higher and higher energies for more than 80 years. Today, besides their role in scientific discovery, scientists estimate that more than 30,000 accelerators are at work worldwide in areas ranging from diagnosing and treating disease to powering industrial processes.
The accelerators of tomorrow promise still greater opportunities. Next-generation particle beams represent cheaper, greener alternatives to traditional industrial processes. They can give us clean energy through safer nuclear power, with far less waste. They can clean up polluted air and water; deliver targeted cancer treatment with minimal side effects; and contribute to the development of new materials. As tools for inspecting cargo, accelerators can strengthen the nation's security.
By positioning Illinois and Fermilab to become the new global center of accelerator science and engineering, IARC presents an unparalleled opportunity to develop and share the known and still unexplored benefits of particle accelerators.
Opportunities for Illinois
IARC will provide the opportunity for Illinois to become a world leader in accelerator technology. In partnership with the Department of Energy's Office of High Energy Physics, the designated steward of the nation's program for accelerator science and technology, IARC will position Illinois to become a global center for the development of accelerator physics and engineering, medical accelerators, beam diagnostics and instrumentation, superconducting and high-power radiofrequency technology, next-generation synchrotron light sources and isotope generation. With a strong focus on industrialization of these technologies, IARC will attract high-tech companies and train Illinois citizens in advanced technologies.
The project will also bring immediate economic benefits to the 1.4 million residents of Kane and DuPage counties by creating approximately 80 construction jobs in Illinois. Federal funding for accelerator development at Fermilab will create or continue to support about 200 Illinois high-tech jobs. The number of new industrial jobs created in Illinois as a result of industrial accelerator development at IARC is potentially much larger.
Educational Benefits to Illinois
IARC will develop world-leading educational programs in key aspects of accelerator physics and engineering. As an educational center and working with accelerator programs at nearby universities, IARC will offer advanced educational opportunities to Illinois and attract scholars from around the world. These top scientists will perform world-class research, educate and mentor Illinois students. Regional universities, including the University of Chicago, University of Illinois, Illinois Institute of Technology, Northern Illinois University and Northwestern University all have active research programs at Fermilab and Argonne. By providing state-of-the-art facilities for visiting scientists, students and industrial partners, IARC will strengthen Fermilab's and Argonne's links to Illinois universities and industry.