Grace Manahan

Dr. Grace Manahan is a Research Fellow in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde, part of the Faculty of Science. She is actively involved in experimental and computational research in plasma-based particle acceleration and advanced light sources, primarily through the Scottish Centre for the Application of the Physics of the Accelerator (SCAPA).

Her research focuses on laser-driven particle acceleration, high repetition-rate ion sources, electron beam dynamics, and coherent radiation generation. Key interests include plasma wakefield acceleration, photocathodes, beam emittance control, and the development of compact, high-brightness light sources. She utilizes high-performance computing resources such as SHAHEEN II and JURECA for simulations supporting experimental work.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend toward developing ultrafast, high-brightness electron beams for next-generation free-electron lasers and compact radiation sources. Her work bridges experimental laser-plasma physics with advanced beam diagnostics and computational modeling, contributing to breakthroughs in attosecond science and synchronized electron-laser systems.

Scientific Awards:

• PIER Fellowship Recipient (2016)
• SUPA Postgraduate, Postdoctoral and Early Career Researcher Short-Term Visits (PECRE) Recipient (2015)

Dr. Manahan has been a principal and co-investigator on multiple research projects involving high-performance computing for plasma acceleration modeling. She contributes to public engagement through events like the Glasgow Science Festival and regularly presents at conferences, including invited talks on SCAPA results. She collaborates extensively with leading researchers such as Bernhard Hidding, Dino Jaroszynski, and Mark Wiggins.

She is involved in the development of high-repetition proton diagnostics and laser-driven ion acceleration systems at SCAPA. Her work supports broader efforts in creating compact accelerators for materials, life sciences, and space radiation simulation.