Supervisors: Olle Lundh (Department of Physics, Lund University), Crister Ceberg (Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University) & Kristoffer Peterson (Department of Oncology, University of Oxford)
Radiotherapy is an cornerstone of modern cancer treatment, primarily using X-ray photon irradiation produced by electron beams in the 5-15 MeV energy range. While electron beams are also employed clinically, they encounter limitations in penetration depth and dose accuracy, reducing their effectiveness against deep-seated tumors. Recent advancements highlight Very High-Energy Electrons (VHEE, >100 MeV) as a promising alternative, demonstrating excellent tumor-targeting precision and enhanced therapeutic efficiency compared to conventional methods.
The objective of this project is to develop compact laser-plasma accelerator technologies optimized for precise VHEE radiation therapy. The doctoral researcher will engage in multiple facets of this initiative, including developing adaptive electron beam control systems, characterizing beam manipulation techniques, investigating advanced 3D dose measurement approaches, formulating novel treatment planning methodologies in collaboration with medical experts, and exploring radiobiological effects with a special focus on FLASH radiation therapy.
This research will take place at Lund University, Sweden, internationally renowned for excellence and innovation in education and research. The Atomic Physics Division specializes in optics and laser technology, covering attosecond physics, high-intensity laser physics, and plasma acceleration, and hosts the Lund Laser Centre (LLC), a leading interdisciplinary laser research hub. The proximity to Skåne University Hospital further enhances opportunities for collaboration in medical physics and advanced radiation therapy.
The doctoral student will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a dual-output short-pulse laser system at the Lund Laser Centre based on Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplification (OPCPA). This system delivers simultaneous outputs at 100 Hz (6 TW) and 10 Hz (30 TW), with pulse durations below 10 femtoseconds. Additionally, a clinical linear accelerator (Elekta, Sweden), specially modified for FLASH irradiation with a 10 MeV electron beam, is available to support dosimetry studies and translational research.
Expected Results
- Control system for optimized laser-driven electron beams
- Compact VHEE beam delivery system
- Comparative analysis of 3D dosimetry methods
- Study of treatment planning integrating laser-plasma accelerators
- Analysis of radiobiological effects, such as FLASH therapy applications
Planned Secondment
- Four months at the University of Oxford, Department of Oncology, Medical Sciences Division: Study on FLASH radiation techniques under supervision of Dr. Kristoffer Peterson