News from the 8th LEAPS Plenary Meeting in Krakow
     1/5     |
From 13 to 15 November 2025, SOLARIS hosted the 8th LEAPS Plenary Meeting of LEAPS – the League of European Accelerator-based Photon Sources. More than 100 representatives from synchrotron and FEL facilities across Europe convened at the Krakow Technology Park to discuss strategic directions and strengthen collaboration within the consortium.
The meeting opened with an overview by Dr. Jakub Szlachetko, Director of SOLARIS and outgoing Chair of LEAPS. Working Groups and Strategic Groups presented recent accomplishments and outlined future objectives. Among the central themes was the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in research infrastructures, including its integration into long-term development plans and a dedicated SWOT analysis on its implementation across facilities. The second day featured the official handover of the LEAPS Chair, with Dr. Szlachetko passing the role to Prof. Dr. Serguei Molodtsov (XFEL). Thomas Feurer (XFEL) is set to take over the Chairmanship in 2026. The programme included contributions from experts representing UNESCO, OECD, the Initiative for Science in Europe, Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste, ALBA Synchrotron and other key organisations, highlighting the essential role of cooperation and solidarity in advancing scientific progress. |
|
The closing session focused on safeguarding open access to large-scale facilities, building public trust in science, and fostering interdisciplinary approaches. Participants reiterated the importance of unity within the scientific community to ensure that science remains a universal, open, and collaborative endeavour. LEAPS – the League of European Accelerator-based Photon Sources – is a strategic consortium established by the directors of Europe’s synchrotron radiation and free-electron laser facilities. |
|
Last Updated on Wednesday, 04 February 2026 15:17
