Radiation Protection and Dosimetry

Teaching methodologies: exposition of theoretical concepts (theory classes), solving of real problems (practical-laboratory classes), problem solving (mandatory and evaluated homework assignments), visiting of a centre generating radioisotopes for nuclear medicine (www.uc.pt/icnas), and experimental verification of concepts (laboratory work carried out in the Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Laboratory of Physics of ISEC).

To provide the theoretical and practical knowledge inherent to medical physics and biomedical engineering in the framework of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, comprising: (1) its nature, description, and quantification; (2) its physical and technological origin; (3) its biological and physiological effects, immediate, and on the short, medium, and long term (either established scientifically and legally, or under study); and (4) its operational, public, and environmental limits. Competences to acquire include: (1) familiarization and
comprehension of scientific concepts associated with both electromagnetic and particle radiation; (2) capability to calculate and consequently (3) undertake decisions in the context of radioprotection, fully supported by scientific and national and international directives and legislation; and (4) autonomously update personal knowledge in the field of effects of radiations to human health by means of proper and critical literature review.

Concepts of atomic and nuclear physics. Natural and artificial sources of both ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Interaction of (electromagnetic ionizing and non-ionizing, and particle) radiations with matter.
Biological effects of radiation. Methods and instrumentation for its detection, measurement, and dosimetry.
Legal and regulatory aspects of radioprotection in: static fields, transmission lines, radio waves, infrared, visible, and ultraviolet light, X-rays and gamma rays, and particle radiation. Operational, public, and environmental radioprotection. Sealed and non-sealed radioactive sources and their utilization in industry, nuclear power stations, laboratories, research centres, and medical facilities. Management of radioactive waste and decommissioning.

NAO