Astrocent – International Institute for Particle Astrophysics
Polish Academy of Sciences (IIPA PAS)
Who we are
Astrocent – the International Institute for Particle Astrophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences (IIPA PAS) – is a research institute in Warsaw, Poland, specialising in particle astrophysics and advanced detector technologies.
How Astrocent was created and funded
Created in 2018 as the Particle Astrophysics Science and Technology Centre within the Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center of the Polish Academy of Sciences (NCAC PAS), Astrocent was transformed in February 2026 into an international institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences. Its activity is supported by major European and national programmes, including the Horizon Europe Teaming for Excellence project Astrocent Plus and the International Research Agendas FENG programme, which together provide a stable framework for strategic research and development in particle astrophysics and detector technology.
Our research at Astrocent
Our work focuses on the hidden Universe, from dark matter and elusive neutrinos to ripples in spacetime known as gravitational waves. To detect these faint signals, Astrocent develops extremely sensitive instruments and data-analysis methods. Researchers at the institute work at the crossroads of particle physics, astrophysics, cosmology and engineering, with a particular emphasis on advanced detectors and gravitational-wave instrumentation that make observations of these phenomena possible.
From research to real-world impact
Our research groups conduct scientific work and advanced R&D on topics ranging from astrophysics to chemistry and medical physics. Our activities span from fundamental studies in particle astrophysics to the design, construction and testing of innovative detection systems. We maintain close cooperation with universities, research organisations and industry partners in Poland, Europe and worldwide, with the goal of transferring knowledge and technology into practice – in particular to medicine, sustainable energy, environmental monitoring and security. By bringing together science and technology, national and international partners, laboratories and society, Astrocent seeks to deepen understanding of the Universe and to ensure that the knowledge and tools created along the way bring tangible benefits to society.
Purpose
Why Astrocent exists and what it stands for
At Astrocent we want to explore the hidden Universe and to turn that exploration into lasting value for science and society. The institute brings together fundamental research in astroparticle physics and the development of advanced detection technologies, creating a place where ideas, instruments and people meet across disciplines, sectors and borders.
Mission
What we aim to achieve
The mission of Astrocent is to:
- Advance astroparticle physics by conducting high-quality research on dark matter, neutrinos and gravitational waves, and by contributing meaningfully to leading international experiments.
- Develop breakthrough detection technologies – scalable, multi-channel systems and methods – that enable new discoveries and open applications in medicine, energy, environmental monitoring and security.
- Foster collaboration across boundaries, linking universities, research institutes, industry, non-profits and science centres in Poland and abroad, and coordinating Poland’s contribution to large European research infrastructures.
- Educate and support the next generation, offering young researchers an international, multidisciplinary environment with clear paths for growth and responsible mentorship.
- Promote a modern research culture, rooted in integrity, professionalism, respect, inclusiveness and open communication.
Vision
Where we are heading
Astrocent aims to become a leading reference institute for particle astrophysics and detector science in Central and Eastern Europe, a place where:
- Cutting-edge instruments are conceived, tested and refined;
- Talented researchers and engineers from Poland and around the world choose to build their careers;
- Collaboration between science and industry produces solutions that benefit healthcare, sustainable energy and environmental resilience;
- Efficient management, ethical conduct and inclusiveness are treated as integral parts of scientific excellence, not as an add-on.
Values
Principles that guide our daily work
Collaboration and shared purpose
Collaboration and shared purpose
At Astrocent, we work as one team across disciplines and sectors, united by a shared culture of excellence. We act with awareness and responsibility, recognizing that our individual choices shape our life, our institute, and society.
Integrity and responsibility
Integrity and responsibility
Honesty, diligence, and scientific integrity are fundamental to everything we do. Our research is conducted with care and transparency, upholding legal, ethical, and institutional standards, and acknowledging all contributions.
Excellence and innovation
Excellence and innovation
The institute is committed to excellence in science and meaningful innovation. Our pursue for new ideas and technologies is driven by a clear purpose – to expand the frontiers of knowledge and to develop solutions that benefit society.
Inclusion and equal treatment
Inclusion and equal treatment
Dignity and equal opportunity for every person are essential. Decisions are made with attention to bias, and discrimination, harassment and favoritism are not tolerated. Gender equality and multiculturalism are actively supported in recruitment, development and leadership.
Mentorship, learning and growth
Mentorship, learning and growth
Astrocent is committed to the education and development of young researchers and all staff. Supervision and teaching follow high standards, and a safe space is maintained for curiosity, experimentation and lifelong learning.
Open and respectful communication
Open and respectful communication
Dialogue is based on clarity, honesty and listening. Scientific debate is encouraged, but conducted with respect. Communication with the public is accurate, accessible and responsible, reflecting both the excitement and the responsibility of discovery.
Good governance and professionalism
Good governance and professionalism
Modern management, clear procedures and accountable leadership are treated as enablers of good science. Decisions are taken transparently, conflicts of interest are managed, and good practices in the organisation are continuously developed and shared.