“Isotope Production in DONES: Exhaustive analysis of different isotopes and preliminary design of their industrial production” is the title of the thesis defended on July 7 by Elena López Melero. The work, supervised by A. Javier Praena Rodríguez (University of Granada) and Eduardo Romero Sanz (CIEMAT), received the highest distinction from the examination board.

The research investigated the feasibility of producing various medical radioisotopes, which are essential substances for diagnosing and treating diseases such as cancer. These isotopes, currently in short supply worldwide, could potentially be produced at IFMIF-DONES thanks to its advanced deuteron and neutron beam technology.

This alternative use of the facility could pave the way for a reliable supply of radioisotopes, benefiting both medical research into new therapies and the regional healthcare system.
Elena López carried out her doctoral research under a UGR–CIEMAT predoctoral contract, showcasing the success of this collaborative program between the University of Granada and CIEMAT.

Her thesis adds to the growing body of doctoral research linked to IFMIF-DONES, following the recent defence by Irene Álvarez, and ahead of an upcoming third thesis by Pablo Canca, titled “Ab initio study of carbon defects in irradiated ferritic materials of interest for fusion,” supervised by Blanca Biel Ruiz (UGR) and Christophe J. Ortiz (CIEMAT).

From IFMIF-DONES, we extend our warmest congratulations to Elena López for her successful thesis defence and wish her continued success in her professional career.