ECE 290 Seminar: Speaker Dr. Josh Star-Lack – Photon Counting Detectors for X-Ray Computed Tomography

Presenter: Dr. Josh Star-Lack, Principal Scientist and Research Manager, Varex Imaging Inc

Description: X-ray computed tomography (CT) provides rapid, detailed 3D imaging of internal organs, bones, and vasculature. By enabling the swift diagnosis of cancer, cardiac disease, neurological disorders, and other pathologies, CT has revolutionized medicine—reducing the need for invasive exploratory surgeries and facilitating precise treatment planning. Despite the technology’s maturity, the clinical demand for higher spatial resolution, increased sensitivity, and lower ionizing radiation doses remains high. This presentation reviews the fundamental principles of CT, traces its evolution since its invention 50 years ago, and describes a new technology, photon-counting x-ray detection, as a transformative solution to current clinical challenges.

Bio: Josh Star-Lack received his B.S. in Applied and Engineering Physics from Cornell University and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from U.C. Berkeley. He has worked on the development of medical imaging technologies, including X-ray computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, for his entire professional career. He is currently a Principal Scientist and Research Manager at Varex Imaging Inc, the world’s largest manufacturer of X-ray detectors and tubes. He has co-authored over 150 publications and holds over 50 patents.

Hosted by: Professor Soumya Bose, ECE Department

Zoom Link: https://ucsc.zoom.us/j/97975378707?pwd=ljcgaCfhMmhZ88Vt5dqQUBVQRjehOx.1