Photon Science Research Institute
Introduction
The primary role and responsibility of the Photon Science Research Institute (The Institute) is to provide a focal point in the UK for research requiring next generation photon sources. Good governance requires a formal reporting structure, and it is important that clear roles and means of interaction between the Institute, its steering committee and PALS are properly defined, communicated and understood, in order that there is the minimum duplication of effort or potential for conflict with each other's activities.
In its initial phase an important initial task of the institute will be to assemble a ‘task force’ to help define the scientific requirements for the proposed UK-based light source project. The institute will also work to improve access to non-UK facilities (such as FLASH and LCLS), and will help bring together activity at a large number of Universities with work at STFC and Diamond. It will nurture key branches of science that make use of advanced photon sources, but which presently find themselves without adequate resources to develop appropriately.
Terms of Reference (TOR)
The institute is charged with the following:
- To act as a focal point in the UK for research requiring next-generation photon sources
- In consultation with other areas of STFC to contribute and develop an agreed strategy for the provision of and exploitation of advanced photon sources, both in the UK and overseas, for the Physical and Life Sciences.
- To nurture engagement and collaboration with scientific communities that may be involved with such facility based science in the immediate and near futures.
- To engage and consult the wider community (including Research Councils) on the merit of the scientific drivers, their priority, and the approach being taken.
In liaison with the New Light Source Project the Institute is charged :
- To define the key scientific drivers (requiring next generation photon sources) that will place the UK at the forefront of world research and major facility development.
- To agree the essential programme of work that cannot be catered for by partnering with international collaborators, and which thus requires a new UK facility.
Reporting Structure
In the initial stages of activity the Institute will report formally through the Steering Committee (Photon Science Governing Body: PSGB) of the New Light Source Project and Photon Science Research Institute (PSGB), and via that body to the PALS committee.
It is also expected that on an informal basis frequent communications will be made concerning the activities of the Institute with the Chairman of PALS, the Head of the STFC Photon Science Department, and the STFC Head of Strategy.
