The INCITE project proposes a coordinated numerical campaign to advance three areas in laser-wakefield acceleration (LWFA) and its applications. It focuses on optimizing dephasingless acceleration using spatio-temporally shaped axiparabola-reflected pulses, modeling beam coupling between staged wakefield accelerators, and interpreting strong-field Compton scattering experiments. The work uses large-scale particle-in-cell simulations with INCITE resources and is closely integrated with experimental programs at the Weizmann Institute, ELI-NP, and Lund University.

The project applies Bayesian optimization and quasi-2D simulations to identify parameters for maintaining stable wake phase velocity, followed by full 3D simulations with realistic geometries. It also studies how an electron beam from a laser-driven stage can be injected into a beam-driven stage, examining focusing, nonlinear wakefield generation, and injection instabilities. Additionally, it will model interactions between LWFA electrons and backreflected laser pulses to predict photon yield and assess access to the strong-field QED regime. The results will support ongoing experiments, validate new acceleration concepts, and guide the design of future laser-based accelerators and radiation sources.