Radiological Risk in Perspective

April 17, 2025|5:00–6:00PM (6:00–7:00PM EDT)

Available to All Users

Radiation is all around us—but how risky is it, really? Robert Hayes, Associate Professor of Nuclear Engineering at NC State University, puts radiological risk into perspective using data-driven comparisons and real-world examples. He examines how radiation exposure is measured, what levels are considered safe, and how public perception often diverges from scientific consensus.

Presenter: Robert Hayes

Robert Hayes is an Associate Professor of Nuclear Engineering at North Carolina State University and a joint faculty member at Savannah River National Laboratory. He is a licensed Professional Engineer, Certified Health Physicist, and Fellow of both the Health Physics Society and the American Physical Society. His research focuses on radiological risk assessment, radiation shielding, nuclear forensics, nonproliferation monitoring, retrospective dosimetry, air monitoring, and nuclear waste management. He previously held senior technical roles at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant and the former Nevada Test Site, supporting operational radiation protection and safety analysis. Dr. Hayes also serves on the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advisory Committee on Nuclear Security, contributing to national guidance on radiological safety and risk communication. His work integrates experimental measurements, regulatory compliance, engineering modeling, and public engagement to advance radiological protection in both technical and societal contexts.

Moderator: Christopher Perfetti

Christopher Perfetti is an Associate Professor in the Nuclear Engineering Department at the University of New Mexico. Prior to his appointment at UNM, Chris was an R&D scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he served as the Sensitivity and Uncertainty Analysis Method Team Lead for the SCALE Code Package. Chris received BS and MS degrees in nuclear and radiological engineering from the University of Florida in 2007 and 2008, respectively, and his PhD in nuclear engineering from the University of Michigan in 2012. His research interests include sensitivity and uncertainty analysis method development, Monte Carlo method development, advanced reactor core design, nuclear criticality safety, radioisotope production, and radiation shielding. Chris has served as the Chair of the American Nuclear Society’s Reactor Physics Division, Chair of the Alpha Nu Sigma National Honor Society, Chair of the Trinity (NM) ANS Local Section, and Chair of the Oak Ridge/Knoxville ANS Local Section. He currently serves as the Secretary of the ANS Education, Training, and Workforce Development Division, as the Chair of the Adult Education Committee for the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, and as the General Chair of the upcoming M&C2025 topical meeting. In his free time, Chris enjoys cycling, hiking, and taking his daughters to museums.