On February 28th, 2024, the IEEE EMBS AIUB Student Branch Chapter organized a scientific visit to the Secondary Standard Dosimetry Laboratory (SSDL) located at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment (AERE), Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (INST), Ganakbari, Savar, Dhaka. The visit aimed to promote practical understanding and knowledge exchange in the field of nuclear science, application of engineering principles to radiology, medicine, and healthcare to provide effective solutions to related problems, which falls within the field of interest of the IEEE EMBS. The visit was also supported by the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS).
The IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS) is a prominent international organization within the IEEE, which focuses on advancing the application of engineering and technology in medicine and biology. EMBS grants Chapter Project Initiative Funding awards to its chapters, student chapters, and clubs to initiate impactful initiatives. The IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS) AIUB Student Branch Chapter was awarded this funding for taking the initiative to organize an impactful scientific visit. The funds were utilized to arrange the visit to the Secondary Standard Dosimetry Laboratory, which aimed to delve deeper into the field of biomedical engineering and create an impact.
The program began with an inaugural session conducted by Dr. Swapan Kumar Chakraborty, Director & CSO, Scientific Information Unit, AERE. During this session, the participants were introduced to the operations and functions of the facility, which set the stage for an enriching day ahead. Following the inaugural session, Dr. Shakilur Rahman, Chief Scientific Officer & Director, NSSSD, BAEC, led a comprehensive briefing session covering topics ranging from the basics of radioactivity, radiation, and nuclear medicine to the intricate schemes for radiation protection. His expertise illuminated key concepts, providing attendees with a solid foundation for the day's activities.
The most noteworthy aspect of the visit was the tour of the laboratories situated within the SSDL. Led by Dr. Shakilur Rahman, the tour offered firsthand insights into the methodologies and equipment utilized in activities such as whole-body counting, gross alpha-beta counting, beta and gamma calibration, gamma spectrometry, and many more. The interactive nature of the tour allowed participants to engage directly with cutting-edge technologies and procedures, enhancing their understanding of practical applications in the field of radiology and nuclear medicine. The visit concluded with a brief closing ceremony and a pleasant lunch. Participants left with newfound knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of radiation-related research and applications.
SSDL calibrates dosimetry equipment used in medical procedures that rely on ionizing radiation for diagnosis and treatment. This helps in measuring the amount of radiation delivered and in ensuring the safety of staff and the public. The contents, procedures, and objectives of each laboratory within the SSDL are entirely dedicated to human health and radiation protection, aligning closely with the 17th Sustainable Development Goal "Good Health and Well-being". A total of 25 Selected Participants, mostly IEEE Student members attended the visit, along with honorable faculty members Dr. Shameem Ahmad, Assistant Professor, Dept. of EEE, AIUB and Dr. Humayra Ferdous Associate Professor, Department Head, Department of Natural Science [Physics], AIUB.
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