Design of a cargo scanning linac for security applications

About the project

About the Project Project Background Industrial applications is one of the three key areas of the Cockcroft Core grant, whereby security linacs has been identified as one of the priority areas supported by the BDG. This proposal will focus on the design of a cargo scanning linac for security applications. Lancaster has also been involved in the development of security accelerators for cargo scanning for a number of years in collaboration with Rapiscan. Rapiscan are keen to support studentship on multi-view cargo scanning, following on from a Cockcroft patent on how to split power from a single RF sources to multiple linacs on microsecond timescales. This significantly redues the cost of security linacs allowing Rapiscan to develop a cost effective system for doing 3D images of cargo. Currently Rapiscan does 3D images only of small baggage but the aviation industry is keen for something similar for air freight if the cost can be brought to a reasonable level. The PhD student would work up a full design of the system and would do prototype tests at the Rapiscan radiation test bunker and the CI RF bunker to show the concept works at high power. This would then trigger Rapiscan to commercialise the product. The student will also work on a linac design complementary to this and work with Rapiscan to look at how linac beam stability affects the imaging ability. Proposed Scheme of Work The first year will be focused on completing the CIETC training course to building up the foundation on accelerator design, and important technologies such as RF cavities. The student will familiarize themself with simulation packages required for this project, such as CST and Simulink and spend time learning how to use high power RF equipment in the RF Bunker. Simulations of the The second year will focus on the design of the design of the RF system, including a compact high power multiplexing systems, and ordering any required equipment via Rapsican. Some preliminary experiments will be done in the RF bunker to ensure the concept works, using commercial of the shelf circulators. A bespoke linac may be designed for the project or we may use an existing Rapiscan linacs. Year 3 will focus on testing the prototype as well as completing the design of the rest of the system to provide a full system design for Rapiscan for the end of the project. Studies will also look at how imaging is affected by linac stability. The student will write up by the end of month 42 to complete by the end of the funding. Funding and eligibility: Upon acceptance of a student, this project will be 50% funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council and 50% by Rapiscan for 3.5 years. This consists of a tax free stipend at UKRI rates, university fees at the home (UK) rate, plus support for travel to conferences and workshops. A full package of training and support will be provided by the Cockcroft Institute, and the student will take part in a vibrant accelerator research and education community of over 150 people. Contact for further information: Prof. Graeme Burt g.burt1@lancaster.ac.uk How to apply: Apply at the Cockcroft Institute PhD webpage . For full consideration for funded awards, please apply by Jan 31st 2026. Anticipated Start Date: October 2026 for 3.5 Years

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