The IFE-STAR Conference 2025
Managed by the three IFE Hubs
A National Outreach Initiative for Inertial Fusion Energy
A National Outreach Initiative for Inertial fusion Energy
The IFE-STAR ecosystem is an outreach and workforce development initiative managed by the three IFE hubs. Its overarching vision is to propel the future of inertial fusion energy by forging robust connections among academic institutions, national laboratories, and private industry, both domestically and internationally. The IFE-STAR ecosystem is dedicated to uniting enthusiastic individuals and organizations, sharing essential resources, and delivering the most current information to effectively address the significant challenges in inertial fusion science and technology. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the IFE-STAR ecosystem aims to create a vibrant community that supports the advancement of research and practical applications in inertial fusion.
The IFE-STAR website addresses the pressing need for a centralized platform dedicated to inertial fusion energy, as information on the topic is often fragmented and unreliable. The goal of the IFE website is to connect a wide range of stakeholders—from experienced researchers to passionate students and young scientists—by offering accurate insights and directing users to credible resources.
As part of the IFE ecosystem stewardship, an annual conference focused on inertial fusion energy and its applications is organized by the three IFE hubs, with support from the fusion energy sciences program within the DOE’s Office of Science. This inclusive event aims to unite scientists from national laboratories, universities, and the private sector with several key objectives: (1) to discuss the latest advancements in IFE science and technology, (2) to identify common areas of interest and prevent duplication of efforts, (3) to foster collaborations essential for addressing complex IFE challenges, including connections with the magnetic fusion energy community, and (4) to provide a platform for students, postdocs, and early-career scientists to actively participate in IFE research.
The IFE-STAR Ecosystem coordinates a national IFE summer research program for undergraduate students enrolled in U.S. universities and colleges. Students accepted into this program will have the opportunity to conduct IFE summer research at partnering organizations and universities across the nation. Applications will be shared with research institutions based on the student’s selected interests within the application. Each institution will independently reach out to selected applicants as they fill their summer research openings. Information and a link to the application site will be posted on this site when the call is open.
The IFE50 initiative is designed to engage institutions that are currently not involved in inertial fusion energy (IFE) research. Its goal is to bridge gaps in IFE science and technology by overcoming geographical and informational barriers. By forming partnerships with interested institutions in each state and the District of Columbia, IFE50 aims to create opportunities for students to learn, collaborate, and contribute to the advancement of inertial fusion energy. Through a series of workshops and seminars, we seek to attract and inspire researchers in underrepresented states, encouraging them to take an active role in shaping the future of clean and sustainable energy solutions.
Do you have any programs or resources in your state that could benefit IFE? Please let us know.
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