Established in 1948, the RRL was one of the first laboratories in the United States dedicated to radiobiological research. In 1960 the RRL became one of the first laboratories to establish a graduate program in radiation biology. To date, the program has produced nearly 90 graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions in the fields of academic radiobiology and free radical research, academic medicine, and cancer research.
Radiation biology refers to the study of the effects of radiation on living things.
Studies on the interaction of radiation with living matter are key to understanding how radiation can be used to investigate normal and altered cell structure and function, and to diagnose and treat various diseases, particularly cancer. The meeting will feature research presentations by distinguished alumni of the program. Daret St. Clair, Ph.D., of the University of Kentucky will deliver the department's Titus Evans lecture on Oct. 30, and James Mitchell, Ph.D., of the National Institutes of Health, will give the keynote address on Oct. 31.