23 July 2026
ARPANSA's s Director Primary Standards Dosimetry Laboratory, Duncan Butler has contributed to international research recognised with the Galileo Galilei Award 2025 for Best Publication by the European Federation of Organisations for Medical Physics (EFOMP).
The award-winning paper brought together researchers from 23 countries to develop a practical method for measuring cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging doses in radiotherapy centres using equipment that is commonly available around the world, such as Farmer ionisation chambers and water-equivalent slab phantoms used for routine radiotherapy quality assurance.
The approach helps clinics optimise imaging doses and strengthen patient safety, even where specialised dosimetry equipment for the precise measurement, calculation and assessment of radiation dose is not available. Dosimetry helps ensure patients receive accurate radiation doses during medical treatment.
As part of the project, Duncan provided technical expertise from ARPANSA's Primary Standards Dosimetry Laboratory (PSDL), including calibration data and advice on radiation detectors used in medical imaging. The laboratory's measurements helped researchers develop correction factors that enable accurate dose assessments across a wide range of clinical settings.
The contribution reflects the important role of ARPANSA's PSDL, Australia's primary authority for radiation dose measurement standards. The laboratory provides accredited calibration services for radiotherapy dosimeters used by cancer treatment providers to ensure equipment such as linear accelerators and kilovoltage X-ray systems are accurate. The PSDL's services help inform national standards and support safe, consistent and effective radiotherapy across Australia.
This international recognition highlights how ARPANSA's measurement science expertise supports advances in radiation safety and patient care, both in Australia and around the world.
Find out more about PSDL calibration services: https://www.arpansa.gov.au/our-services/testing-and-calibration/calibra…
