One of the most notable aspects of our work in portable gamma imaging is how it illustrates the importance of big science, collaboration and translation.
Technology initially developed for X-ray astronomy - a field that has traditionally been thought of as 'blue-sky' science without direct societal applications - has, through interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers at the University of Leicester and the University of Nottingham, evolved into a prototype gamma camera for use in nuclear medicine. This technology was subsequently licensed to Serac Imaging Systems Ltd., whose Seracam gamma-optical camera is now in clinical testing across the world.
Further cross-sector collaboration, led by Dr. Sarah Bugby in partnership with Sellafield Ltd., has demonstrated that the same technology could also play a role in nuclear decommissioning - contributing to the clean-up of the UK’s legacy nuclear estate for future generations.
We now look forward to continuing to work alongside Serac Imaging Systems Ltd. as they explore this promising new application.