There are some people who quietly do their job and don’t receive a lot of fanfare. In our historical profiles, we like to call attention to a few of the men and women who deserve to be lauded for their achievements—both for what they did for ORAU and the greater field of science. Jack Beck is one of those men.
In our archives, the resume in Beck’s file cites his leadership qualities as commitment, people-oriented and trustworthy. The people who knew him heartily agree.
Beck grew up in the northeast corner of Georgia. He loved sports, and you could find him fishing on the bank of any nearby lake, river or creek. He was the class president and valedictorian. One of his high school math teachers told him he should consider becoming an engineer. Beck humorously misunderstood, replying, “No, I don’t want to drive a train.”
So, when he realized what his teacher meant and looked into engineering options, he enrolled just across the state line at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, where he earned a degree in engineering physics. Next, his newfound love of physics led him to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he attended graduate school. During this time, Beck participated in a pivotal 10-week internship at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). As part of the internship, he spent a week at the Oak Ridge Institute of Nuclear Studies (ORINS), which would later become Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU). This experience marked the beginning of Beck’s decades-long career with ORAU. He accepted a position there in 1965 and touched many significant programs, laying the groundwork for effective initiatives that are still at work today.
Radiation research and NASA projects
In his early years at ORAU, Beck worked on many important projects, including groundbreaking research for NASA at ORAU’s Medical Division. His team focused on studying the effects of radiation on astronauts, a critical area of research during the space race era. This project not only kick-started Beck’s career but also laid the foundation for his lifelong contributions in the field of radiation science.
ORAU continues its work with NASA today.
Jack Beck (center) gathers with colleagues Bob Ricks (left) and Jim Berger (right) to discuss research.
Advancing cancer treatments
As a certified health physicist (someone who specializes in radiation protection), Beck was part of a team pioneering whole-body radiation treatments for cancer patients. He specifically helped design the treatment facility called the Low Exposure Total Body Irradiator (LETBI). These treatments were in their infancy and primarily offered to patients who had exhausted other options. Despite the experimental nature of the trials, the results were groundbreaking—many patients experienced extended lifespans, and the ORAU Medical Division developed protocols for bone marrow transplants that remain in use today. This work represented a major advancement in cancer research and treatment during that era.
Radiation safety training
Beck also played a valuable role in the Special Training Division, training health physicists in radiological safety and inspection techniques using radiation detection equipment.
ORAU continues this work through its Professional Training Programs today. We’ve taught more than 30,000 students including scientists, physicians, engineers and regulators.
Establishing REAC/TS
Jack Beck at REAC/TS’ 40th anniversary celebration in 2016.
One of Beck’s most enduring contributions was his involvement in the design and early operation of the Radiation Emergency Assistance Center and Training Site (REAC/TS). In 1976, Beck played a key role in coordinating care for the center’s first patient. He even helped write the proposal for and oversee the construction of what is now a Department of Energy (DOE) asset. REAC/TS continues its critical mission today, offering 24/7 support during radiological emergencies and providing specialized training for medical professionals and first responders.
Studying radiation exposure
With Beck’s foundation in understanding health physics, he also worked with ORAU’s epidemiology group, where he studied the health effects of radiation exposure on workers who had encountered both high and low doses during their careers.
We still track and study exposure science today.
Jack Beck is pictured with the Epidemiology Department in the 1970s.
Environmental clean-up with Bechtel
After 17 years at ORAU, Beck transitioned to a new role focusing on environmental clean-up projects under a DOE contract with Bechtel. According to the Health Physics Radiation Safety Journal, Beck served as the radiation safety manager for the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program (FUSRAP). His work involved addressing contamination from hazardous chemicals at sites across the United States, including locations in New York, New Jersey and Oak Ridge. This phase of his career showcased Beck’s versatility and commitment to improving public health and safety.
Leading ORISE’s Environmental Survey and Site Assessment Program
In 1990, Beck returned to ORAU. Within a couple of years, he was tapped to join the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) contract when it was established. ORAU manages ORISE for the Department of Energy. Beck became the program director for ORISE’s Environmental Survey and Site Assessment Program in 1995. His leadership further solidified the organization’s reputation for excellence in environmental research and remediation.
This program continues its environmental assessments today.
Consulting for NIOSH and EEOICPA
Although Beck retired in 2007, his work was far from over. As a consultant, he collaborated with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) on the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). This ORAU-managed program provides compensation for atomic workers diagnosed with one of 22 radiation-related cancers. Beck’s efforts helped ensure that eligible workers received coverage for their medical expenses, making this one of the most rewarding chapters of his career.
Today, this team has submitted more than 66,000 dose assessments for NIOSH review.
A legacy of innovation and impact
Jack Beck holds up a fish he caught; picture used in his obituary.
Jack Beck’s fingerprints are ubiquitous in the field of health physics. From the pioneering cancer treatments in the ORAU Medical Division to his foundational work with REAC/TS, his impact on science and public health is immeasurable. In recognition of his achievements, the Health Physics Society (HPS) named Beck a Fellow member in 1998, which is reserved for a senior distinguished member of HPS who has made major scientific contributions to the profession. In 2014, the society further honored him with the prestigious Founder’s Award, underscoring the profound impact of his work.
Jack Beck passed away in 2023. This picture of him holding up a catch is how his family remembers him. It was used with his obituary. In an interview with the Oak Ridge Public Library Digital Collection, he joked that he worked to feed his fishing habit. Beck’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, perseverance and a lifelong commitment to improving the world through science. You might say he “reeled in” a lifetime of achievements that will benefit generations to come.
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