The IAEA is launching a new coordinated research project aimed at improving the academic development of radiation metrology specialists in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Beginning in 2025, this four-year “Coordinated doctoral research project in radiation metrology” will promote the development of new methodologies in this field. It will also increase the number of specialists capable of training the next generation of radiation metrologists, while fostering lasting collaborations.

As the global burden of cancer increases, hospitals around the world are using ionizing radiation more frequently to diagnose and treat patients. At the same time, technological advances and the introduction of new techniques are changing the way radiation is used in medicine.

Radiation metrology, the science of measuring and quantifying ionizing radiation, is essential to ensuring high-quality, safe and effective care, especially since deviations in expected doses of ionizing radiation can lead to adverse effects undesirable clinics. These range from inadequate diagnostic procedures to ineffective interventions to irreparable injuries.

In this context, the IAEA strengthens the expertise and capabilities of LMICs by supporting innovative research in areas directly related to radiation metrology. Research topics could include, but are not limited to, dosimetry for radiopharmaceutical therapies, advanced dosimetry for diagnostic radiology; and advanced dosimetry in radiotherapy and brachytherapy.

Each Coordinated Research Project (CRP) research team will be composed of a doctoral student from a LMIC and two academic supervisors – one from the university awarding the degree and another, a remote co-supervisor, specialist in the subject proposed from a country with relevant expertise. As the CRP contract holder, the local supervisor acts as the principal research scientist and takes primary responsibility for guiding the student throughout their studies. The remote mentor will provide advice to ensure the overall quality and scientific relevance of the research. Together, all three will carry out studies on themes related to advanced dosimetry and radiation metrology.

Overall objective of the CRP:

The main objective is to enhance the academic development of specialist radiation metrologists within Secondary Standard Dosimetry Laboratories (SSDLs) of LMICs. This objective will be achieved by facilitating advanced research in dosimetry and establishing international scientific networks. More broadly, the CRP aims to improve the quality and accuracy of dosimetry services in participating countries by developing new radiation dosimetry methodologies.

Expected results:

• Radiation metrologists with the knowledge and capacity to improve dosimetry traceability at the national level; coordinate, support or initiate education and training programs in their institutions or others at the national or regional level, and contribute to the training of future radiation metrologists and medical physicists.
• Increased implementation of dosimetric traceability at the local level.
• Publications that lead to better radiation dosimetry practices, benefiting all countries.
• The formation of scientific networks that participants can draw on advances the field.