This project will investigate thin films and multilayer coatings for next-generation gravitational wave detectors, from single nitride films to SiN/a-Si DBR stacks, focusing on low-temperature performance.

The ICF award will support a visit to the CMAM ion accelerator and ERDA-TOF facilities. Collaboration priorities include training investigators in advanced compositional analysis, exchanging expertise on thin films and multilayer coatings, and refining experimental plans. The visit will enable joint data collection, strengthen collaboration, and develop a high-quality EIC Pathfinder proposal on next-generation gravitational wave detector coatings, laying the foundation for a larger European research project involving other EU partners.

By combining complementary capabilities, the collaboration increases the likelihood of forming a robust, multinational consortium capable of delivering high-impact outcomes in gravitational wave detector coatings.