The Dan Voiculescucu Foundation for the Development of Romania, in collaboration with the National Institute for Nuclear Physics and Nuclear Engineering, arranged a special visit for 30 young individuals with a keen interest in technology and physics to the renowned laser facility in Măgurele. During the visit, the young people were guided by Dr. Ioan Dăncuș, the technical director of the Extreme Light Infrastructure - Nuclear Physics project. He provided detailed information regarding the functionality and applications of lasers in various fields, including medicine, industry, and national security.
The young people attending the special action came from Bucharest, Barlad and Slatina, fascinated by the complexity and potential of this revolutionary technology.
„It was an incredible experience. Seeing one of the world's most powerful lasers up close is a dream come true. I am seriously considering a career in nuclear physics", said one of the participants.
Pupils and students pursue their academic endeavours at a multitude of educational institutions, including Grigore Moisil Theoretical High School, Matei Basarab National College, Tudor Vianu National College of Informatics, Cambridge School of Bucharest, and the National School of Political and Administrative Studies (SNSPA).
The Măgurele laser, part of the pan-European Extreme Light Infrastructure - Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP) project, is one of the most powerful and advanced lasers in the world. The young research enthusiasts explored the state-of-the-art laboratories, where researchers showed them fascinating experiments and explained how interactions between lasers and matter can lead to remarkable scientific discoveries.
Throughout the visit, pupils and students had the opportunity to observe the sophisticated equipment used for research in nuclear physics and its applications in fields such as medicine, industry and national security. The enthusiasm and curiosity of the youngsters was evident throughout the day, with each experiment and demonstration met with questions and lively debate.
This was an invaluable experience for young people with a keen interest in nuclear physics, offering them a distinctive insight into the demands and rewards of a research career, as well as the potential impact of scientific innovation on the wider community.
The Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania demonstrates a consistent commitment to the advancement of education among the younger generation, providing crucial support for research and innovation. The visit to the National Institute for Nuclear Physics and Nuclear Engineering exemplifies the foundation's dedication to nurturing the next generation of researchers in Romania.