CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is the world’s largest particle physics laboratory. Denmark was among the founding members of CERN in 1954 and has a long-standing tradition of contributing to and benefiting from its research infrastructure.
In recent years, however, concerns have been raised about the future of Denmark’s engagement with CERN. A report from a national working group, led by the Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education (UFS), highlights that Denmark’s historically strong presence at CERN is under pressure due to a declining research base, with a risk that the Danish CERN community may disappear in the coming years.
DIRAC has been established as a national lighthouse initiative to address these challenges and strengthen Denmark’s use of CERN. Bringing together around 30 researchers and experts from 7 Danish institutions, DIRAC enhances collaboration across a wide range of complementary research environments.
The initiative aims to revitalize and expand Denmark’s use of CERN by reinforcing the existing Danish participation in CERN’s particle physics experiments, while also exploring new research opportunities in areas such as materials science, green technology, quantum technologies, and digital solutions.
DIRAC contributes to a sustainable development of the Danish CERN community by building capacity, supporting new generations of researchers, and facilitating interdisciplinary innovation.
