What is the purpose of fundamental research?

Humankind has always sought to understand the world. To increase knowledge, scientists develop innovative instruments, advancing technologies that also have real-world applications, such as in computing and medicine. Some CERN technologies have revolutionised society, such as the invention of the Web. In addition, CERN’s approach to international collaboration, based on openness and sharing, has been used as a model for other institutions and peace projects.

YOU MIGHT NOT REALISE IT, BUT THERE IS A PARTICLE ACCELERATOR NOT FAR FROM WHERE YOU LIVE.

“You might not realise it, but there is a particle accelerator not far from where you live. The LHC is one of 30 000 accelerators worldwide. They are used in hospitals and industry. When you work at CERN, you see innovative ideas emerging every day.”

> Marzena, a member of the CERN Knowledge Transfer group.