2020 roadmap on plasma accelerators

Abstract Plasma-based accelerators use the strong electromagnetic fields that can be supported by plasmas to accelerate charged particles high energies. Accelerating field structures in plasma generated powerful laser pulses or particle beams. This research has recently transitioned from involving a few small-scale efforts development of national and international networks scientists substantial investment large-scale infrastructure. In this New Journal Physics 2020 Plasma Accelerator Roadmap, perspectives experts provide summary overview insights into needs developments for an audience scientists, including graduate students researchers entering field.