Catalysing Impact: Superconductors as an opportunity for Science & Society

By Amedeo Habsburg

As the two-day event “Catalysing Impact – Superconductivity for Global Challenges” drew to a close, the atmosphere at CERN was one of shared purpose and optimism. Held on 1–2 December 2025 in the Main Auditorium, the event gathered leading researchers, industry representatives, investors and policymakers to explore how collaborations in superconducting technologies can advance particle physics while addressing some of the world’s most pressing societal challenges.

From particle accelerators to global impact: Superconductivity has long been central to particle physics. But technologies first developed for high-energy physics have repeatedly moved beyond the laboratory, most notably with the emergence of MRI systems, demonstrating how breakthroughs in fundamental research can transform society.

Today, as global energy, climate and healthcare pressures grow, the conversation is shifting from “What can science give to society?” to “How can science and industry jointly develop technologies that benefit society while advancing research?”

The workshop underscored this shift. Beyond their role in collider magnets, high-temperature superconductors (HTS) now promise lossless power transmission, compact fusion magnets, efficient renewable systems and new capabilities in healthcare, transport, computing and quantum technologies – all aligned with SDG-17’s emphasis on partnership-driven innovation.

By bringing together scientists, industry, investors and policymakers, the event sought to bridge fundamental research with real-world deployment and to accelerate collaborative pathways.

What happened over the two days?: Across keynotes, panels and round tables, participants examined both the current technological landscape and the opportunities ahead. Introducing the discussions, Frédérick Bordry noted:

“Superconductivity has become the silent engine of discovery science.”

A central message of the summit was that while the research community needs more capable and more resilient superconductors for the next generation of experiments, these same technologies also have significant potential for broader societal applications. This dual perspective shaped discussions on fusion, lossless power grids, efficient transport, medical systems and quantum technologies. 

Participants also stressed that major hurdles remain. Global competition accelerating, and Europe must act quickly to secure technological and economic leadership. Doing so will require coordinated investment and supportive policies. Including stronger risk capital and mechanisms to the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial deployment. The conclusion was clear: meaningful progress depends on collaboration between science, industry, investors and policymakers.

What comes next?: The summit set in motion several concrete follow-up priorities:

  • Aligning scientific R&D roadmaps with broader societal priorities, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Facilitating public–private consortia to build demonstrators that serve both industry and research needs.
  • Advancing funding mechanisms and investment pathways that better connect research institutions, governments and the private sector.

A moment of transition: The “Catalysing Impact” workshop highlights a turning point: a moment when superconductivity, once seen as a niche technology, is emerging as a strategic enable for wider societal transformation.

As Mike Lamont, echoing Churchill, remarked: 

“You take participants from research, industry, finance and policymaking, bring them together at CERN – and what do you get? The sum of all their hopes.”

For those interested in hearing directly from participants, a series of short interviews is available here: 

Furthermore, a video highlighting the event’s mission can be found here: Catalysing Impact