Joint colloquium-“Multi-Modal Sensing for Radiation Detection and Imaging”

Joint Physics and Nuclear Engineering colloquium

Ren Cooper

Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory

Abstract: The detection, identification, and localization of radiological/nuclear material in real-world environments is a key component of nuclear safety and nuclear non-proliferation efforts around the world. In this presentation, I will describe how combining radiation detection systems with contextual sensors such as video, Lidar, GPS/INS and more enables new and improved capabilities for radiation detection and imaging. I will also discuss how the integration of these multi-modal sensing systems with robotic platforms is paving the way for autonomous radiation detection, imaging, and mapping in a range of applications.

Bio: Ren Cooper is a Senior Scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) where he is the Head of the Applied Nuclear Physics Program and the Deputy Director of the Nuclear Science Division. Ren received B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees from The University of Liverpool, UK and joined LBNL in November 2011 following three years of postdoctoral research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory where he developed new High Purity Germanium (HPGe) detectors and signal processing algorithms for nuclear structure physics and neutrino double beta decay studies. Ren specializes in the development of novel radiation detection and imaging systems and algorithms for fundamental physics, nuclear safeguards, nuclear safety, and nuclear security. He currently leads research projects that include the development of new HPGe detectors, advanced technologies for vehicle-based radiation detection and imaging, radiological data fusion, and the exploration of new systems and methods for networked radiation detection.

Hill Hall 203