Passing of Former Main Commission Member Professor LI Deping

2025-03-18

On behalf of our colleagues and friends at the Chinese Society of Radiation Protection (CSRP), it is with profound sadness that we annouce the passing of former ICRP Main Commission member, Professor LI Dipeng, on 16 March 2025.

Professor Li was an Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, a recipient of the Merit Medal of China Nuclear Industry and National Science Conference Award, a former member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, internationally renowned radiation protection expert, former president and honourary president of the China Institute for Radiation Protection (CIRP). Throughout his professional journey, he made monumental contributions to the establishment of China's radiation protection research and radiation monitoring systems.

Professor Li graduated from the Tsinghua University in 1948, prior to the founding of the People's Republic of China, and worked successively at the Institute of Modern Physics (later renamed the China Institute of Atomic Energy) and the China Institute for Radiation Protection. His early work included pioneering research into radiation detectors, devoting himself to developing China's first halogen counters and high-current tubes, which reached international standards. Over the course of his career, his notable achievements include leading the first environmental radioactivity background survey around nuclear facilities, designing the country's first self-developed dosimetry monitoring system for zero-power reactors, and guiding the setup of China's early radiation metrology laboratory with a wide array of technical challenges overcome. He provided robust technical support for the safety of China's nuclear energy. In academic research, he emphasized the integration of theory and practice. His groundbreaking work, documented in a large number of influential publications, has left an indelible mark on the field of radiological protection in China. The "Radiation Protection Handbook," which he edited, remains an essential reference in China's radiological protection practice to this day.

Beyond his technical brilliance, Professor Li's dedication to education and talent cultivation ensured the sustainable growth of radiological protection disciplines in China. In his life, he cared for his colleagues and selflessly supported struggling students financially, generously helping others in times of need. Professor Li was also known for his humility and pragmatic approach. Serving as the Chief Editor of the Chinese journal "Radiation Protection" for over 20 years, he meticulously reviewed every manuscript, ensuring the quality of the publication while also fostering a scientific spirit among young professionals. He adhered to the concept of knowledge sharing, saying, "Knowledge does not diminish when shared with others."

As a steadfast advocate for international collaboration, Professor Li's influence transcended borders. He played a pivotal role in promoting international cooperation and exchange within the field of radiological protection. He contributed greatly to the international cooperation on radiation safety standards, serving as a member of the Main Commission of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) for three consecutive terms, representing China at the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), participating in the review of radiation protection regulations for the International Labour Organization (ILO) and being an advisor to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). His dedication was crucial in ensuring that China's voice was heard on the global stage. As a contributor to the ICRP 1990 General Recommendations, he bridged scientific rigor with practical application, helping to align China's radiological protection system with international standards.

Professor LI Deping devoted his entire life to the field of radiological protection. His life was marked by a relentless pursuit of truth, progress, and scientific advancement, and characterized by tireless efforts towards national development.