“A network of scientists, science educators and communication specialists working across the globe in science education and public engagement for particle physics.”
Particle physics is the science of matter, energy, space and time. The International Particle Physics Outreach Group brings new discoveries in this exciting field to young people and conveys to the public that the beauty of nature is indeed becoming understandable from the interactions of its most fundamental parts – the elementary particles.
The IPPOG experts come from prominent national or international professional physics centres, universities, societies and laboratories engaged in particle physics research, and from major particle physics experiments. The diversity of their cultural and educational backgrounds brings a large and important variety of skills to the table, which permit for the effective development of novel outreach activities with maximal impact. IPPOG members represent links to several national-level science networks. This constitutes IPPOG’s global network of laboratories, institutions, organizations and individuals all passionate about particle physics. The expertise of IPPOG’s members spans all aspects of collider and non-collider research, including astroparticle physics and accelerator and detector technology.
For its members, IPPOG is a forum for the exchange of information and best practices with colleagues from around the world, a brainstorming platform. It is also a platform of resources, ideas, inspiration, training and skill-building, providing access to programmes for students, teachers and the public. IPPOG increases international exposure and enables centralised and coordinated efforts through partnerships.
For particle physics and the scientific community, IPPOG represents a key partner for promoting and enabling their scientific mission and activities. It is a platform for engaging on a global level, building partnerships within the community and across communities, and for supporting the broader scientific objectives of particle physics and its role in society. For the worldwide particle physics community, IPPOG is a strong partner for engaging society in diverse ways adapted to the target audiences.
Herein lies the role of IPPOG as a pillar of particle physics: IPPOG is capable of reaching out and engaging large international audiences with particle physics activities in a manner that fosters long-term, sustainable support for fundamental scientific research around the world.
Vision
IPPOG acts as a strategic pillar for the particle physics community by fostering long-term, sustainable support for fundamental scientific research around the world. IPPOG develops programmes and strategies that address current and future challenges in particle physics and related fields. IPPOG’s scientific education and outreach activities improve public understanding and appreciation of the benefits of fundamental research, spark interest and enthusiasm among young people, and strengthen the integration of science in society. IPPOG not only motivates, inspires, and educates our youth in the field of particle physics, but it develops personal awareness of the value of science, international collaboration and the process of evidence-based decision making, regardless of age or discipline. IPPOG helps in the establishment of broad public support, as well as the commitment of key stakeholders and policy makers for current and future particle physics projects.
IPPOG builds trust in science and its methodology to offer future generations a meaningful basis for the decisions that will shape their lives. Without compromising established methods, IPPOG is exploring new paths to engage citizens – especially the young. Reaching out to students and their teachers to convey the methods and tools used in fundamental science is a strong investment in the future. While only a fraction of young students will become scientists, and fewer still will become particle physicists, all will become ambassadors for the scientific method and evidence-based decision-making. Audiences will be more educated and appreciative of the importance of research, and thus more suited to make informed decisions about science and policy in the future.
- Chair: Pedro Abreu
- Chair: Steven Goldfarb
- Strategic Development Lead: Barbora Bruant Gulejova
