The 64th Annual Conference of the Particle Therapy Co-Operative Group (PTCOG 64) concluded successfully in Deauville, Normandy, France, bringing together a record 1,364 participants from 47 countries for a week dedicated to advancing the future of particle therapy. Under the theme, “Waves of Innovation: Advancing Particle Therapy Together,” the conference provided a dynamic platform for clinicians, physicists, researchers, radiation therapists, industry leaders and healthcare professionals to exchange knowledge, foster collaborations and explore the latest scientific and technological developments in the field.
Hosted in the coastal town of Deauville, PTCOG 64 combined world-class scientific content with unique networking opportunities, reinforcing the event’s position as one of the most important annual gatherings for the global particle therapy community. The programme featured educational sessions, scientific presentations, clinical case discussions and strategic conversations addressing the future of proton and carbon ion therapy.
“The success of PTCOG 64 reflects the strength, ambition, and collaborative spirit of the global particle therapy community. Two highlights stood out for me among many. First, the presentation and discussion of Phase III clinical trial results in head and neck cancer marked a particularly important milestone, providing valuable evidence that will help guide the future of our field. And of course, the visit to CYCLHAD, where participants had the opportunity to see the groundbreaking C400 cyclotron in operation. As the first cyclotron capable of accelerating carbon ions up to 400 MeV/n, it represents the kind of innovation that inspires us to continue improving the use of particle therapy. Together, these scientific and technological achievements, along with all the new science that was shared, made PTCOG 64 a truly memorable meeting.”
Professor Marco Durante, President, PTCOG
A Gathering for the Particle Therapy Community
The exceptional attendance reflects the continued growth and global relevance of particle therapy as an increasingly important modality in cancer treatment. Delegates from across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa came together to share research findings, discuss emerging clinical evidence and strengthen international partnerships that will help shape the next generation of patient care. The conference demonstrated both the maturity of the field and the strong momentum driving future innovation.
Conference participants benefitted from an extensive educational and scientific programme covering technological advances, clinical applications, biology, treatment planning, operational developments and strategies to improve access to particle therapy worldwide. The breadth of expertise represented throughout the meeting highlighted the multidisciplinary nature of the field and the value of global collaboration in accelerating progress.
Plenary Session Connects Fundamental Physics and Particle Therapy
Among the scientific highlights of PTCOG 64 was the plenary session, The Two Quantum Revolutions: From Concepts to Applications, delivered by Alain Aspect (France), Nobel Prize in Physics 2022.
Drawing on his pioneering contributions to quantum mechanics, Professor Aspect explored how quantum science is increasingly influencing real-world technologies and medical innovation. His presentation offered a fascinating perspective on the links between fundamental physics and particle therapy, demonstrating how breakthroughs in basic research continue to shape the future of radiation oncology.
The session underscored the value of cross-disciplinary collaboration and served as a powerful reminder that advances in cancer treatment are often driven by discoveries that begin far beyond the clinic.
Facility Tour Showcases Innovation in Action
Among the highlights of PTCOG 64 was the highly anticipated facility tour to CYCLHAD and the François Baclesse Comprehensive Cancer Center in Caen. This unique experience provided attendees with a rare opportunity to visit one of Europe’s most innovative particle therapy and research facilities and observe cutting-edge technologies firsthand.
Participants gained valuable insights into ongoing advancements in research and treatment delivery, while learning more about the capabilities of the C400 cyclotron, recognised as the first cyclotron capable of accelerating carbon ions up to 400 MeV/n. The visit served as a practical demonstration of how scientific innovation is being translated into real-world clinical and research applications, further inspiring collaboration across the global particle therapy community.
Investing in the Next Generation of Leaders
A defining feature of PTCOG 64 was its strong commitment to supporting the future of the profession through the PTCOG Early Career Researchers (ECR) Workshop. The full-day programme was designed specifically for emerging researchers working across academia, industry and clinical settings, providing participants with practical skills, confidence-building opportunities and valuable professional connections.
Through expert-led sessions, interactive discussions and hands-on activities, attendees explored topics including mentorship, professional development, scientific communication and networking strategies. The workshop reinforced PTCOG’s ongoing dedication to nurturing young talent and ensuring that the next generation of researchers is equipped to drive innovation in particle therapy for years to come.
Strengthening a Global Community
Beyond the scientific programme, PTCOG 64 offered countless opportunities for collaboration, networking and knowledge exchange. Researchers met future collaborators, clinicians shared best practices, and industry partners showcased emerging technologies that have the potential to further improve patient outcomes worldwide. The meeting exemplified the collective spirit that has made PTCOG a driving force in the advancement of particle therapy.
The success of PTCOG 64 not only reflects the achievements of the global particle therapy community today but also highlights the exciting opportunities that lie ahead as access to advanced radiation therapies continues to expand across the world.
Looking Ahead to PTCOG 65 in Bangkok
As the particle therapy community celebrates the achievements of PTCOG 64, attention now turns to the next chapter.
The 65th Annual PTCOG Conference will take place from 7–12 June 2027 in Bangkok, Thailand, bringing together experts from around the world for another inspiring week of education, innovation and collaboration. Building on the momentum generated in Deauville, PTCOG 65 promises to continue advancing the science and practice of particle therapy while creating new opportunities for global engagement.
Learn more about the next conference by visiting the official event website: PTCOG 65 – Bangkok 2027.