PG course on radiation biology introduced in Berhampur University, Bhanja Vihar

Berhampur University has decided to introduce a post graduate diploma course on radiation biology and applications from this academic year. The one-year self-financed course is the first of its kind in the state.

The course will have two semesters and will be equivalent to M Phil. The candidates, after completing the course, can apply for PhD. Students having MSc in life science, biotechnology, chemistry, physics or pharmacy are eligible for admission through an entrance test, sources said.

The course would help tide over the dearth of radiation safety officers (RSOs), assigned with operation and maintenance of radiation safety in different projects under the department of atomic energy.

"The university has the required infrastructure like the Gamma House with cobalt machine on the Botanical Garden premises. The special chamber is being monitored by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, Mumbai," said vice-chancellor of the university J K Mohapatra.

"Scientists from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai, will also take part in the teaching programme at the university," the VC added.

Berhampur University had signed a memorandum of understanding with the BARC in 2010 to carry out collaborative research on ionizing radiation. Source: ToI