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Dave’s primary research interests are in free-electron lasers (FELs) and in applying machine learning to particle accelerators for a range of applications.

He joined ASTeC in 2005 after completing a Master’s degree in physics at the University of Manchester and specialised in FELs, including experimental studies, facility design, and developing new concepts:

• He was part of the team that designed, commissioned, and operated the UK’s first free-electron laser – the infra-red oscillator FEL on the ALICE facility.
• He has gained significant experience in the design and simulation of FELs for major facility proposals, including significant contributions to the UK projects 4GLS, NLS, and CLARA, as well as for commercial applications. Most recently, he has led ASTeC’s contribution to the proposal for a UK XFEL.
• He completed his PhD at the University of Strathclyde in 2015 on the topic of ‘Methods for the Generation of Ultra-Short Free-Electron Laser Pulses’ and has published several papers on the topic.
  

In recent years, Dave has also focused on developing ASTeC’s capability in applying machine learning to particle accelerators for a range of applications. He runs an interest group to promote development and collaboration on this topic, with membership from across UK organisations (new members are always welcome!). He also works on operating CLARA and writing software for its operation.

Dave's publications (link opens in a new window)