Julie Burtt

Professional biography

Julie has worked at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) since 2007. As a radiation and health sciences specialist in the Health Sciences and Environmental Compliance Division, she assesses the health risks of low-dose radiation exposure and shares scientific information with interested parties, the Commission, Indigenous Nations and communities and the public, including youth.

Expertise and education

She studied at the University of Ottawa and Laurentian University, earning an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and a master’s degree in chemical sciences. She is also pursuing a doctorate in human studies and interdisciplinarity. Her expertise includes radiation biology, dose assessment and science communication.

Roles and responsibilities

In her role, Julie works on a wide range of health-related files that support the CNSC’s regulatory oversight. She prepares plain-language and technical information, contributes to CNSC web content, and supports public outreach and education by meeting people in their communities for meaningful dialogue. She also works with researchers in Canada and internationally. This work supports the CNSC’s efforts to help protect the health of Canadians and Indigenous Peoples through sound science and clear communication.

Other highlights

She has represented the CNSC and Canada on committees such as the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), the Nuclear Energy Agency, among others. This work helps keep the CNSC current on emerging research and regulatory approaches.