= The LhARA initiative; harnessing laser-driven ions for biomedical application =
**Abstract** submitted to [https://spie.org/EOO27/conferencedetails/applying-laser-driven-particle-acceleration Applying Laser-driven Particle Acceleration (ALPA)] at [https://spie.org/conferences-and-exhibitions/optics-and-optoelectronics SPIE Optics and Optoelectronics 2027]

 //Kenneth Long // for the collaboration 

== Abstract ==

The Laser-hybrid Accelerator for Radiobilogical Applications is conceived as a uniquely-flexible facility dedicated to the study of the biological impact of proton and ion beams.  It is the central pilar of the LhARA collaboration's initiative to:
 * Deliver a systematic and definitive radiation biology programme;
 * Prove the feasibility of laser-driven hybrid acceleration; and
 * Lay the foundations for the transformation of clinical practice of ion beam therapy.

The development of a systematic programme of radiobiology centred on the proof-of-principal beam-line, "PoPLaR", on the SCAPA facility at
Strathclyde University is the second pilar of the LhARA intiative.  The third pilar of the initiative is the creation of an eco-system in
which co-creation, co-investment and international collaboration deliver the technologies required to transform ion-beam therapy.

The design of the LhARA facility will be described and the status of the PoPLaR beam line will be summarised.  Progress in the development of the industrial partnership will also be reviewed.
 
== Summary for display in the program ==
The properties of laser-driven ion beams have significant potential to advance research in radiobiology and to provide new paradigms for proton and ion-beam therapy.  This contribution will present the LhARA initiative which seeks to provide transformative capability for the study of radiobiology and to advance particle-beam therapy by harnessing the unique properties of laser-driven proton and ion beams.

== Biographical information ==


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