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Pablo Yepes

Pablo Yepes

Research Professor

Physics & Astronomy

CONTACT

yepes@rice.edu

WEBSITE(S)| T.W. Bonner Laboratory

SURF Mentoring

Potential projects/topics: Undergraduate students could do research in:

1) Radiotherapy
The research in radiotherapy is split into two specialized areas:

a) Optimizing Proton Therapy (PT): We focus on maximizing the theoretical advantage of PT, a technique utilizing the proton's unique dose profile (the Bragg Peak) to achieve superior healthy tissue sparing. Research involves developing methods for meticulous control of highly sensitive dose distributions and better understanding the complex, subtle biological effects, which are critical for realizing its full clinical potential.

b) Solving the Metrological Crisis in FLASH Radiotherapy: This involves adapting ultra-fast Solid-State Detectors (SSDs) to measure Ultra-High Dose Rate (UHDR) delivery, a revolutionary method where conventional detectors fail. We borrow techniques from high-energy physics to develop hybrid SSD systems capable of accurately measuring the instantaneous dose rate and spatial profile of these microsecond-long FLASH pulses.

2) Quantum Mechanics Education and Outreach
We are developing an educational and outreach effort that focuses on creating online, interactive illustrations of quantum mechanical systems. The goal is to provide students with a more intuitive and visual grasp of the peculiar and often abstract nature of quantum phenomena.

Potential skills gained: Programming, Analytical thinking

Required qualifications or skills:

  • Academic Foundation: A background in calculus and introductory physics is highly desired.
  • Required Characteristics: Preference for applicants with basic programming skills (e.g., Python), excellent analytical thinking, and a meticulous, resourceful approach to problem-solving.
  • Major Flexibility: The project is not limited to specific majors; students demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to learn cutting-edge technology are encouraged to apply

Direct mentor: Faculty/P.I., Graduate Student

Research Areas

My research focuses on proton therapy, PT, for cancer treatment. This kind of radiotherapy has theoretical advantages over traditional radiotherapy with x-ray (photons) or electrons. The physical characteristics of the proton make it easier to minimize secondary effects, when treating patients with PT. Nevertheless, a number of issues need to be better understood and controlled in order to take full advantage of the physical characteristics of PT. One of those issues is how to calculate accurate dose distributions for a given set of radiation specifications. Proton dose distributions are more sensitive to the characteristics of the radiation and the environment than for traditional photon radiation. Another important factor is understanding the biological effects of proton radiation.