At the 49th General Assembly held in Barcelona, December 2024, Dr. Gianfranco Federici was elected to be the new EUROfusion Programme Manager following a rigorous selection process. Dr. Federici succeeds Prof. Ambrogio Fasoli as he returns to EPFL to become its Provost.
In his presentation to General Assembly, Gianfranco outlined the critical focal points for both EUROfusion and European fusion strategy over the pivotal coming years. Given the evolving fusion landscape, the core themes to his strategy centre around the implementation of a redefined European fusion roadmap, the definition of a realistic work plan for 2026-2027 and beyond, the strengthening of key internal and external stakeholder relationships and work streams, together with the implementation of mechanisms for the increased involvement and partnerships with industry.
Already a known figure within the programme and wider fusion network, Gianfranco comes to the post with a breadth of experience across various fusion programmes and the EUROfusion consortium. Since EUROfusion’s inception, Gianfranco has led the fusion technology department and related Work Packages. In this time, Gianfranco has established an internationally recognised DEMO design and technology R&D programme, whilst more recently built a DEMO Central Team, and brought to the fore the urgent need to strengthen the nuclear technology qualification programme to address performance and reliability issues of components like the breeding blanket, the fusion fuel cycle etc. that are on the critical path of fusion development. Following the decision of the GA, Gianfranco shared the following:
“I am honoured that the GA has placed faith in my candidature and given consensus in the vision and necessary strategy. I now look forward to applying this and guiding EUROfusion through this challenging and rapidly evolving terrain. I see the urgent need to (i) work closely with the European Commission to ensure better coordination and to anticipate possible reorientation of the European Fusion Roadmap in the medium term; (ii) strengthen our collaborations with the ITER Organisation and Fusion for Energy, (iii) improve our dialogue and collaborations with private entities (industry and fusion start-ups) and (iv) to exploit further effective International Collaborations within the continued strategy of win-win engagement”.
The GA expressed confidence in Gianfranco’s vision, strategy, and experience-to-date to address the priorities and challenges presently faced by the European fusion community and maintain the programme’s position as a global leader towards the realisation of fusion.
The GA also recognized Ambrogio’s commitment, vision and dedication to the Consortium, during his five years as Chair and one year as Programme Manager, and deeply thanked him for it.
A short handover phase will ensue before Gianfranco’s official tenure begins on the 1st January 2025.
Author: EUROfusion
Go to the News page.