The Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Radioactivity (CARER) has been established by the Mangalore University as a NATIONAL FACILITY through the financial support from the Board of Research in Nuclear Sciences (BRNS), Department of Atomic Energy, Govt. of India, and technical support from the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). This is the most advanced laboratory/center for radioecological and radiation protection research in the the University system in India. The centre is engaged in frontline research on radioecology and environmental radioactivity in collaboration with BRNS, BARC, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL).

The CARER has 6 laboratories with state-of-the-art facilities for radioecological studies. Liquid scintillation spectrometry, Carbon-14 and Tritium measurements laboratory, Alpha spectrometry laboratory, Gamma spectrometry laboratory, Radon laboratory, Sample processing laboratory and laboratory, Laboratory for simulation studies on deposition velocity, deposition rate, and mass interception factors of radionuclides. These facilities are being extended for researchers from national and international laboratories, universities and institutions, and industries.

It is a matter of pride to mention that CARER is the first AERB accredited laboratory in the University system in India, which can undertake testing for radioactivity and issue certification for packaged water, food, commodities, etc. Many industries from all over India approach CARER for testing of materials such as, spices, packaged water, pharmaceuticals, food materials, etc. meant for export as well as for public consumption. Besides this, many other industries such as, thermal power plants, mining industries, metal industries, etc. are using the facilities of CARER for testing their products for radioactivity. Availability of testing facilities at CARER has immensely benefited the industries of this region.

CARER is actively engaged in educating and creating awareness among the general public, college teachers, and students about the radiation in the environment, the beneficial applications of radiation and radiation technology, and of the importance of nuclear power for the development of the country. In this direction, CARER is frequently organizing public awareness programmes in association with different colleges and institutions.

Training programmes and workshops are organized periodically by CARER for students, research scholars, faculty, project staff of BRNS funded research projects, and for participants from industries. The participants are trained in environmental samples collection, sample preparation, and low level detection using advanced facilities.