Research
MHB statistician and radiation researcher appointed as UN expert

Neuruppin, 24 January 2025
The United Nations (UN) have appointed Prof. Dr. Michael Hauptmann, head of the Institute of Biostatistics and Registry Research at the Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane (MHB), to the renowned Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR). In this capacity he will explore the impact of radiation on the central nervous system. MHB president Prof. Hans-Uwe Simon is highly satisfied with the appointment, “which underlines Prof. Hauptmann’s outstanding expertise in the field of radiation research and statistics. This is a further confirmation that our university conducts excellent research at the highest international level and contributes to the solution of global challenges.”
Prof. Hauptmann, member of the Radiation Protection Commission of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety and active at the MHB since 2019, is pleased to represent the university and his institute at a global level, collaborate with other experts and jointly develop evidence based radiation protection standards: “Research in UNSCEAR will contribute to a better understanding of the risks of ionizing radiation and thus to health protection for millions.”
UNSCEAR is an independent scientific panel at the United Nations which supports political decision making with profound expertise on radiation risks. Members examine the impact of ionizing radiation from natural and man-made sources on humans and the environment and evaluate possible effects on health such as cancer or genetic damage. Findings are used to develop worldwide protection standards for the benefit of mankind.
Scientists of international renown work in UNSCEAR in an honorary capacity. They are selected for scientific competence and specialist knowledge in fields like physics, biology, medicine and epidemiology and objective analysis of data. Prof. Hauptmann is going to contribute his expertise to a comprehensive assessment of the effects of high-energy radiation on the central nervous system. Apart from the well-known cancer risks his focus will be on cognitive implications, which are relevant to professionals in the aerospace sector with increased exposure to cosmic radiation. Completion of this assessment is scheduled for 2027.
Contact:
Prof. Michael Hauptmann
Director, Institute of Biostatistics and Registry Research
Phone: +49 3391 39 14580
E-Mail: michael.hauptmann@mhb-fontane.de