Current Research Project:

Calorimetry techniques for absolute dosimetry of laser-driven ion beams

My research is focused on the development and testing of a novel approach to measure the absorbed dose of laser-driven protons using a small portable graphite calorimeter (SPGC) developed at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). This is in line with the development of centre's offering treatment based on charged particle acceleration, leading to this modality becoming a more readily available tool in the fight against cancer. The huge size and cost associated with facility installation has led to compact laser-driven approaches being considered. Accurate dosimetry of these high dose per pulse beams is technically challenging, thus requiring the development of innovative strategies, including calorimetry techniques, to replace those already established for conventional radiotherapy.

Biography

After completing my MSci, which was focused on the area of Radiotherapy Physics at the Cancer Centre, Belfast City Hospital, I decided to continue pursuing research in the area of Medical Applications. I then began my PhD studies at the Centre for Plasma Physics in late 2018.

Research interest

• Radiotherapy Physics
• Ion Beam Therapy
• Dosimetry

PURE Page