Join the Department of Physics for a special guest seminar entitled ‘Progress of ITER, and some perspectives of fusion’, with Pietro Barabaschi, Director General of ITER.
This event will take place in lecture theatre 3 of the Blackett building from 16:00-17:00, followed by a cheese and wine reception in the level 2 foyer.
Please note: both in-person and virtual attendance is available.
Abstract
This presentation by Pietro provides an overview of the recent progress and future perspectives of the ITER project, the world’s largest fusion experiment. In recent years, the project has overcome major technical and organisational challenges, including complex repairs to the Vacuum Vessel Thermal Shield and upgrades to key components. All major superconducting magnets have been completed or are in advanced stages of asembly, representing significant engineering milestones in high-field magnet technology.
The assembly of the Tokamak, ITER’s core device, is progressing rapidly, with several sector modules already installed. Supporting systems such as the power converters and cryogenics plant have reached important commissioning milestones, and new testing facilities are enabling more rigorous validation of components under operational conditions.
Beyond its technical achievements, ITER serves as a global training ground for future fusion scientists and engineers, offering unique opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research, complex systems integration, and international teamwork. The project’s recent performance reflects a turnaround, with record rates of construction and improved cost and schedule control, positioning ITER as a cornerstone for the future of fusion energy and an inspiring example for students entering the field.
Biography
Pietro Barabaschi has served as the Director General of the ITER Organisation since 2022, overseeing the reforms and the construction of the ITER project. Prior to this role, he led an R&D Department in Fusion-for-Energy (F4E), the European Joint Undertaking responsible for delivering European components to the ITER and Broader Approach (BA) Fusion international projects. In this capacity, he was specifically accountable for the European contributions to the three projects implemented under the Broader Approach Agreement between Euratom and the Government of Japan: JT60SA, IFMIF/EVEDA, and IFERC. During 2015 and again in 2022, he acted as the Interim Director of F4E, managing the overall operations of the organisation, the project management infrastructure, and the implementation of reform measures within the ITER Management framework. Before joining F4E and until early 2006, Pietro was the Deputy Project Leader and head of the Design Integration Division of the ITER International Team at the Munich Joint Work Site and previously in San Diego, USA. Shortly after completing his university studies in Electromechanical Engineering, he joined the JET Project in Culham, UK, where he contributed to the machine development department.
Mr. Barabaschi has dedicated his career to Nuclear Fusion research, with a focus on developing and constructing the research infrastructures essential for advancing nuclear fusion as a viable energy source.