Abstract

Plasma-based particle acceleration techniques have witnessed rapid development over the past decades, driven by advances in laser technology and modelling capability. Wakefield acceleration, where an intense laser or particle beam is used to generate a high-amplitude plasma wave, is a method for the acceleration of electrons and is under investigation at a growing number of facilities worldwide. In this seminar I will outline the principles of wakefield acceleration, significant results in the field, the current state-of-the-art, and prospects for the future.