Bruce Marsh, a recognised international leader in laser technologies for radioactive ion-beam production, tragically passed away on 30 December 2023 at the age of 43. Bruce was an invaluable member of the sources, targets and interactions group at CERN, where he was leader of the lasers and photocathodes section. Across CERN, he contributed to shared endeavours with his vast expertise, knowledge, attention to detail and kindness towards those around him. Outside CERN, he was an outstanding figure in the scientific and technical domains of laser ion-source technology, revolutionising its application across various fields.
Bruce completed his PhD at the University of Manchester, and his thesis research included work at the ISOLDE facility at CERN, which he later joined as a fellow in 2006 before taking up a staff position in 2010. In his different roles, Bruce contributed greatly to the development of the resonance ionisation laser ion source (RILIS) techniques dedicated to the production of radioisotopes for fundamental research and medicine at ISOLDE. The ISOLDE RILIS system has become a reference for all radioactive ion-beam facilities worldwide. Furthermore, Bruce worked closely with his team to contribute to the advancement of future accelerators and colliders at CERN, with a particular focus on CLIC, AWAKE and the Gamma Factory.
His work extended beyond CERN, influencing the global landscape of nuclear-structure and laser-physics research. He was a leading expert in the development and applications of RILIS-based in-source resonance ionisation spectroscopy. The technique allowed studies of nuclear ground- and isomer-state properties of radioactive isotopes, including recent investigations in mercury and bismuth isotopes that gained wide attention outside nuclear physics. Bruce authored articles in many high-impact journals and was invited to present his work at numerous international conferences, workshops and schools, many of which he helped to organise.
Bruce also achieved international recognition through his role as the coordinator of the European Union-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie training network Laser Ionisation and Spectroscopy of Actinides (LISA), which comprises a dozen laboratories in Europe, several other international partners and 15 doctoral students, who explore the structure of the actinide elements.
Bruce will be fondly remembered for his warm and welcoming spirit – always ready with a smile for everyone – and for his strong sense of justice. An unwavering champion of diversity in the workplace, Bruce fostered an inclusive environment where every voice was valued, and every individual felt empowered to contribute to shared goals with their unique perspectives. He provided invaluable opportunities for integration, learning and professional growth for his colleagues and was always available for advice on professional and private matters. Despite his wealth of knowledge and accomplishments, he remained humble in all situations, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
