As part of the NEPHEWS Early-Stage Researcher programme, Mr. Abrar Hussain Mian (University of Oulu) completed an internship at the Turkish Accelerator and Radiation Laboratory (TARLA), Ankara, Türkiye, from 4 May 2026 to 11 June 2026, under the supervision of Dr. Haris Dapo.
The internship provided hands-on exposure to the operational principles and research environment of a large-scale accelerator facility, enabling direct interaction with researchers and familiarization with TARLA’s scientific infrastructure and experimental capabilities.
The training covered the following topics:
TARLA Infrastructure and Operational Principles: Overview of TARLA’s objectives, accelerator-based research activities, and general operational framework.
Accelerator Beamline and Pneumatic (Rabbit) System: Introduction to the Rabbit system enabling sample irradiation up to 20 MeV following the Linac1 beamline, including demonstrations of safe sample transfer and irradiation procedures.
Gamma Spectroscopy and Detector Stations: Training on HPGe and Clover detector systems in the RF room, including dual-station configurations (Clover–HPGe and HPGe–Clover), coincidence measurements, and gamma spectroscopy experimental setup.
Sample Preparation and Biological Matrix Analysis: Preparation of algae samples in a moisture-free matrix for nuclear activation analysis, including homogenization and stabilization using PVA/PEEK supports prior to irradiation.
Data Analysis and Software Training: Evaluation of gamma spectra, peak identification, and elemental analysis based on Cu and Ni activation products. Practical training on GF3 software, along with energy/efficiency calibration and dead-time correction procedures.
Overall, the internship was a highly valuable experience, contributing to improved understanding of accelerator facilities and strengthening the researcher’s exposure to an international scientific environment
