Our first Research Forum is scheduled to take place on the afternoon of May 29, 2025 in Marsico Hall. This year’s forum will feature research presentations from three ºÚÁÏÍø labs led by Drs. Barbara Vilen, Brian Miller, and Martina Kovarova. Each lab conducted a comparison study evaluating radiobiological effects using either ¹³⁷Cs-based irradiator or X-ray irradiator in cells or live animals. Funding for these comparison studies was provided by Sandia National Laboratories and the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Office of Radiological Security. The scientific data reported from these laboratories will guide us how to replace the Cs-based irradiator with x-ray irradiator.  In addition, a technical talk on radiation dosimetry tools will be given. Everyone is welcome to attend the forum and join our discussions.

Date: May 29, 2025
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Location: Marsico Hall, Room 6004
Coffee and snacks will be provided.
(For researchers from outside of ºÚÁÏÍø, please to receive the Webinar link.)

In May 2024, the Radiation Core Facility received a grant from Sandia National Laboratories and the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Office of Radiological Security to support research comparing the radiobiological effects of ¹³⁷Cs irradiators and x-ray irradiators. The ¹³⁷Cs irradiator has long been used in various radiation-related research studies. However, due to security concerns associated with its radioactive source, there is a growing movement to transition to x-ray irradiators. While several studies have demonstrated the feasibility of this replacement, the radiobiological equivalency between the two radiation sources needs further validation in a wider scope. This grant provides an opportunity for researchers at the University of North Carolina (ºÚÁÏÍø) to conduct comparative studies evaluating the radiobiological effects of the two radiation sources specifically related to their research focus, either in cells and animal models. The three participating awardees and their respective project titles are listed below.