The LhARA Initiative: A Transformational Approach to Precision, Personalised Particle-beam Therapy -- Special Rutherford Lecture and discussion

Thursday 21 May 2026, 14:00 → 18:00 Europe/London

Pickavance Lecture Theatre (R71)

Bob Bingham (STFC)

The scientific motivation for the LhARA initiative will be presented together with the programme of technological innovation by which the collaboration seeks to:

• Transform the delivery of proton and ion-beam therapy by harnessing the unique properties of laser-driven proton and ion beams;
• Exploit the unique temporal, spatial, and spectral properties of laser-driven beams to explore uncharted territory in the vast terra incognita of the response of tissues to ionising radiation; and thereby lay the foundations for
• ‘Best in class’ treatments to be made available to the many by developing a fully-automated system that removes the requirement for a large gantry, thereby reducing footprint and increasing capacity and throughput.

Successful delivery of the initiative will deliver transformative capabilities for the exploration of fundamental science as well as societal and industrial impact.

 

ZOOM: https://ukri.zoom.us/j/95732365698

14:00 → 15:00 Special Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Lecture and Discussion: Special Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Lecture

Convener: Bob Bingham (STFC)

14:00 Biological science motivation and potential for clinical impact

Speaker: Prof. Yolanda Prezado (Santiago di Compostella)

14:25 The Laser-hybrid Accelerator for Radiobiological Applications and the LhARA initiative

Speaker: Kenneth Long (STFC)

15:00 → 15:30 Break: Coffee and tea

15:30 → 17:00 Discussion

15:30 The LhARA initiative: Pillar 1; a systematic approach to radiobiology

Speaker: Emma Melia (University of Birmingham)

15:50 The LhARA initiative: Pillar 2; the LhARA project

Speaker: Colin Whyte (University of Strathclyde)

16:10 The LhARA initiative: Pillar 3; Exploring collaborative academia-industry ecosystems for science and innovation

Speaker: Dr Tracy Underwood (Leo Cancer Care)

16:30 Discussion

Speaker: Bob Bingham (STFC)