SPECIAL SESSION
Special Session on FLASH Radiotherapy:
Ultra-High Dose Rate Radiation from Conventional and Laser - Plasma Sources
FLASH radiotherapy, based on the delivery of radiation at ultra-high dose rates (UHDR, typically >=40 Gy/s), has emerged as one of the most promising innovations in radiation oncology. Preclinical studies indicate a significant reduction of normal tissue toxicity while maintaining tumor control, known as the "FLASH effect". This special session at RAD2026 will focus on the physics, dosimetry, radiobiology, and technological challenges of FLASH beams generated both by conventional accelerators and by laser-plasma systems. Contributions will address beam generation, pulse structure, ultra-fast dosimetry, treatment planning strategies and the underlying biological mechanisms. Particular attention will be devoted to laser-driven particle and photon sources, which naturally provide extremely high instantaneous dose rates and open new perspectives for compact FLASH facilities.
In parallel, a dedicated training school for young students, PhD candidates and early-career researchers will be organized. The school will introduce the fundamentals of FLASH physics and radiobiology, laser-driven radiation source, and advanced Monte Carlo modeling with Geant4 for accurate simulation of UHDR irradiation conditions. The initiative aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and train the next generation of researchers in this rapidly evolving fields.
Contact persons:
Pablo Cirrone, INFN Catania: pablo.cirrone@lns.infn.it
Gordana Lastovicka-Medin, University of Montenegro: gordana.medin@gmail.com