International Particle Physics Outreach Group Meeting 2023
Jackie Bondell, Education and Outreach Coordinator for the CDM, attended the International Particle Physics Outreach Group (IPPOG) Meeting in May 2023 in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Hosted at research and industry collaboration hub Sofia Tech Park, IPPOG meetings are an opportunity for its representatives, scientists and outreach specialists from various particle physics experiments, and other interested parties such as educators to join together, share best practices, and invite the collaboration of their respective outreach activities.
This year's meeting had sessions on the International Masterclass programs and administrative concerns for the IPPOG Collaboration board as well as sections dedicated to worldwide members being able to share their outreach and education success stories, providing vital opportunities to broaden connections and ideas for CDM's outreach program.
Jackie presented two major CDM outreach initiatives: the Quantum and Dark Matter Road Trip and the Dark Matter Regional Schools Partner Program. IPPOG attendees were impressed with CDM's efforts to connect with students and audiences in areas traditionally underserved for access to STEM engagement programs.
A couple of key highlights related to CDM included:
New that the pilot of a Dark Matter Masterclass led by the SURF team will be integrated with the International Masterclass Program. Jackie will be working with SURF to continue the development of the program till it is ready for addition.
An ATLAS International Masterclass for Australian teachers is in planning, to promote the IMCs as opportunities for their students.
Jackie was thrilled to be able to take part in the event saying, “this meeting was an amazing opportunity to finally connect face to face with my outreach peers. I’m feeling inspired to bring new ideas back to the Centre!”
The meeting also included local activities such as a tour of Sofia, a conference dinner at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant, and a tour of Sofia Tech Park, including behind the scenes of the Discoverer Supercomputer.
* Photo shows the IPPOG delegation in front of the Supercomputer building at Sofia Tech Park.
** Photo credit Fabiola Cacciatore.