AUI Labs Fermi
Alliance (ALFA)
About ALFA
AUI Labs Fermi Alliance (ALFA) is an entity created in response to DOE solicitation number 89243123RSC000083 and is led by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI).
AUI was created in the public interest as a not-for-profit organization to establish and manage one of the first Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), Brookhaven National Laboratory. We pioneered the user facility model allowing the research community to tackle science projects at a scale that no single institution could afford individually. User facilities are the backbone of today’s national lab system, providing access to cutting edge facilities to enable new technologies that push the boundaries of science. We continue to be the trusted manager of the U.S. radio astronomy assets for over 70 years, and lead an international coalition to develop, build and operate the groundbreaking ALMA observatory.
Our vision for Fermilab will be informed by the Principles below.
Our Principles
Driven by Scientific Excellence and Technological Innovation
Fermilab will further enhance its leadership in US HEP research, producing and contributing to world leading results focused on the fundamental nature of matter, energy, space, and time with the highest level of quality and integrity. Fermilab will pursue a robust technology development portfolio for DOE and will leverage novel capabilities in sensors, electronics, and quantum computing to meet the needs of the HEP program and other science and technical areas, and indeed in industry and society.
Champions of Open Access and Transparent Stakeholder Relations
Fermilab will have a culture that emphasizes service to the user community and will pursue collaboration and transparency. Fermilab will strive for the optimal use of the resources for which it is the steward, while meeting all DOE requirements and expectations.
Ambassadors for Big Science
Embracing the role that the Lab plays in the larger R&D ecosystem will be paramount. Through partnerships for the designing, building, operating, and maintaining of facilities, Fermilab seeks to catalyze groundbreaking discoveries leveraging the facilities they operate and the technologies they lead.
Experts at Managing Complexity and Delivering Operational Excellence
Fermilab will strive to fulfill its mission safely, ensuring sufficient resources are targeted to deliver the key goals. Our management systems (including our project management system) will employ best practices, emphasizing clear communication, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement. We will bring a new awareness of the importance and delivery of safety across the Lab, not through increased bureaucracy but through a strong culture of empowerment and individual responsibility.
Catalysts for the Scientific & Technical Future
Fermilab will invest in the next generation of scientists, engineers, and the training and retention of technical staff, fostering a diverse and inclusive career structured workforce. We will actively support education and outreach to engage students and the public in the exciting work that is done and supported at the Lab.
Enablers of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA)
Fermilab will be a leader in integrating and enhancing DEIA in all activities, including the R&D and accelerator operations on-site to the off-site engagements at other research institutions to the education and public outreach program pursued.