On April 1, 2023, the Center for Research in Isotopes and Environmental Dynamics (CRiED) at the University of Tsukuba was reorganized and renamed the Center for Research in Radiation, Isotopes, and Earth System Sciences (CRiES).
Message on the Establishment of the Center for Research in Radiation, Isotopes, and Earth System Sciences
Until now, the University’s research organizations related to isotope science have independently carried out their research and educational activities. However, advancing our understanding of the environmental dynamics of isotopes requires expertise from a wide range of scientific disciplines. To address this need, it became essential to integrate these organizations and establish a comprehensive framework for research and education.
In addition to the existing Division of Isotope Research Infrastructure, Division of Environmental Transfer of Radioactive Materials, and Division of Environmental Prediction, the newly established Center also incorporates the Division of Applied Accelerator Science, Division of Radiation Medical Science, and Division of Isotope Space and Geochemistry. This integration will promote new research utilizing isotopes, including radiation medicine, accelerator-based studies of environmental change, and device development. It will also strengthen the Center’s research infrastructure and enhance education and training in radiation safety.
Research on the environmental impacts and environmental behavior of radionuclides released by the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident requires an interdisciplinary approach spanning multiple scientific fields. By establishing a cross-disciplinary data infrastructure, the Center is expected to play a leading international role in research on the environmental dynamics of radioactivity.
Furthermore, as a Joint Usage/Research Center, CRiES will provide a shared research platform for universities, research institutes, and related scientific communities both in Japan and abroad.
We sincerely appreciate your continued support and cooperation as we work toward the further development of the Center.
Yuichi Onda
Director
Center for Research in Radiation, Isotopes, and Earth System Sciences (CRiES)
University of Tsukuba
