Combating cancer and strengthening national security with new ARC Training Centre

Australia will develop stronger capabilities in nuclear and radiation science thanks to a new ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Radiation Innovation (RadInnovate) opening today.

Centre Director, Professor Mahananda Dasgupta from The Australian National University (ANU), said the new Centre would equip the next generation of leaders in radiation innovation, at a time when there is a global skills shortage in nuclear and radiation science.

“Nuclear and radiation science, policy and regulation underpin a range of national priority sectors including natural resources, health, space and national security,” Professor Dasgupta said.

“RadInnovate will deliver nationally networked, sovereign training that is driven by industry needs and will include programs to increase diversity in science as well as socially and environmentally responsible innovation.”

Led by ANU, in partnership with the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide, the Centre received nearly $5 million from the Australian Research Council (ARC). The centre is also supported by $3.8 million from the universities and industry partners in the medical, mining, defence, regulatory, and technology sectors.

Among projects already underway is a collaboration between Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and ANU, using radiation and nuclear science to strengthen national security.

PhD candidate James Stuchbery explained that the project is based on the need of first responders to operate safely in the event of a chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear threat environment.

“Swift and safe identification and characterisation of sources of concern is critical. The goal is to create a fast simulation tool that will enhance current capabilities to make informed decisions regarding radiological hazards,” Mr Stuchbery said.

Another project, conducted by the University of South Australia and the Australian Bragg Centre, is assessing the use of Proton Arc Therapy (PAT) to combat pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and lethal malignancies, with a rising incidence and a five-year survival rate of only 13 per cent in Australia.

“This research will assess the feasibility of PAT to improve tumour control and establish its clinical use in pancreatic cancer. Findings are expected to provide critical evidence to guide future treatment,” PhD candidate Indiana Neumann said.

With support from the ARC, RadInnovate will create a leading-edge workforce with sophisticated skills in nuclear and radiation science, policy and regulation.