Whether it’s solving the world’s biggest problems or investigating the potential for new discoveries, UCF researchers are at the forefront of scientific discoveries that aim to make an impact. Through the Research in the 60 Seconds seriesstudent researchers and faculty condense their complex studies into bite-sized summaries so you can learn how and why the Knights plan to improve our world.
First name: Melanie Coatup
Position(s): Professor of medicine and leader of the Biionix Cluster
Why are you interested in this research?
Exposure to ionizing radiation can affect many people from different walks of life, from cancer survivors to military personnel to astronauts and our plans for deep space exploration. From the physics, chemistry and biological aspects of it, it is an area where there is still a lot to learn and understand, and if we can discover a way to prevent the damage and harm it can cause, it will have a positive impact on many lives .
Who inspires you to do your research?
The enthusiasm and hard work of my postdocs and students in the lab play a big role in this. But still, everyone I see chooses to continue after an encounter. I think that every job or ambition comes with its challenges and, despite how it may seem, the path forward is not always so smooth. I am inspired to do this research to remember the pioneers of the past like Marie Curie, and also directly from those I see who continue to fight despite the difficulties – especially those who do it with grace and generosity to others.
How does UCF enable you to do your research?
UCF is a truly fantastic place to work and the resources and support I have received from so many individuals in the various departments and services have been so critical in progressing the day-to-day aspects of the research.
What major grants and honors have you earned to support your research?
To date, this research has been supported by NASA, the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation of the United States.
Why is this research important?
Exposure to ionizing radiation can be very harmful to the body. Even if a localized area of the body is exposed, it can cause systemic injury and significant ill health. The development of a radioprotective agent would be helpful for cancer survivors undergoing radiation therapy and for soldiers or civilians in anticipation of radiation exposure. However, at the moment, there are no effective FDA-approved medications that can be given before or indeed after accidental exposure to high doses of radiation. Finding such countermeasures could help prevent injury and potentially death from radiation.