Sir Ian Chapman is a plasma physicist whose focus is on developing fusion as an energy source. He became CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority in 2016. He has held a number of international roles in fusion, currently including membership of the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory Advisory board and chairing the IAEA International Fusion Research Committee.
His research has been recognised with a number of international awards, including the Institute of Physics Paterson Medal in 2013, the American Physical Society Stix Award in 2017, the Royal Society Kavli Medal in 2019 and the Institute of Physics Glazebrook Medal for leadership in 2021.
He was made a Fellow of the Institute of Physics in 2013, became a visiting Professor at Durham University in 2015, elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in 2022 and made an Honorary Fellow of the Nuclear Institute in 2023. He was knighted in the King's New Year's Honours in 2023.
Professional position
- Chief Executive Officer, UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA)
Subject groups
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Astronomy and Physics
Plasma physics
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Engineering and Materials Science
Nuclear technology
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Other
Public engagement, Science policy
