Research Programs
Radiobiology
Radiobiology research is the cornerstone of scientifically-based risk assessment of ionising radiation, particularly low dose radiation. It supports international regulations on nuclear energy and safety. The potential effects of low-dose radiation are currently extrapolated from knowledge on high-dose radiation data. It is assumed that the response to these effects is linear and that there is no minimum threshold.
Environmental nuclear toxicology
The purpose of the environmental toxicology programme is to determine the chemical and radiological toxic effects of the elements used in nuclear research and the nuclear industry. The aim is twofold: (i) to determine human and environmental toxicity thresholds, and (ii) to propose solutions for preventive action, efficient monitoring systems and remedial approaches to soil depollution and human decontamination.
Nuclear medicine and functional imaging
Research in progress concerns the development of new tools and new methods of non-invasive investigation through imaging, and their applications to the study of organ function. The CEA is directly engaged in the design, implementation and validation of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Labelling, structure and engineering of biomolecules
The aim of this research is to construct new tools to help improve our understanding of the complexity of living systems. It is supported by strong expertise in biomolecular labelling, structure, dynamics and engineering. This field of activity lies at the junction of chemistry, physics and biology. It has led to major breakthroughs in healthcare, diagnostics and biotechnology.
Biotechnology
Research in biotechnology is mostly conducted in partnership with industry. It aims to use the skills generated by nuclear technology to develop innovative technological tools that will later find profitable applications in industry. These developments will also provide powerful tools for the fight against bioterrorism and for research in radiobiology and nuclear toxicology.
Fight against nuclear, radiological, biological and chemical terrorism
The skills and resources for functional investigation developed at the CEA are being deployed in particular in the cross-governmental research and development plan for protection against nuclear, radiological, biological and chemical terrorism (NRBC), in which the CEA is a central research player.