The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Radiochemistry Program offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary training environment at the intersection of chemistry, medicine, and nuclear science. Building on UAB’s distinction as a former #1 Top Young University in the United States (Times Higher Education, 2018–2019), the program is embedded within a thriving research ecosystem that includes the UAB School of Medicine and the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center.
At the center of our program is the UAB Cyclotron Facility, home to the TR24 cyclotron, which routinely produces, purifies, and distributes critical medical isotopes across North America. As a member of the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Isotope Development Center, UAB continues to expand its leadership in isotope innovation, radiopharmaceutical development, and translational science. Recent achievements include growth in isotope production capabilities, expanded national collaborations, and increased student-led research spanning radiochemistry, molecular imaging, and nuclear materials.
Led by Dr. Mikaela Pyrch, Dr. Jonathan Burns, and Dr. Outi Maria Keinänen, and supported by secondary faculty Dr. Anna Sorace and Dr. Bernadette Marquez-Nostra, the program combines personalized mentorship with hands-on training in cutting-edge facilities. Research within the program spans a diverse range of radiochemical applications, including actinide chemistry, new radiopharaseuticals, nuclear energy, seperations, and nuclear waste management, where Dr. Burns and Dr. Pyrch investigate fundamental and applied challenges in f-element coordination chemistry, separations, and nuclear materials behavior. Complementing these efforts, Dr. Keinänen’s research applies radiochemical tools to pressing environmental and health challenges, particularly the study of micro- and nanoplastic pollution. Her lab utilizes radiotracer methods to investigate the bioaccumulation and distribution of plastics in mammalian systems, helping to uncover potential health impacts of an increasingly prevalent environmental contaminant. Together, these research areas—further strengthened by the complementary expertise of Dr. Sorace and Dr. Marquez-Nostra—provide students with opportunities to address critical problems in energy sustainability, environmental stewardship, and human health.
Students in the program engage in specialized coursework and training, including:
- Radiochemistry and Nuclear Chemistry
- Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry and Drug Development
- Isotope Production and Separation Techniques
- Actinide Chemistry and f-Element Science
- Nuclear Energy and Nuclear Waste Management
- PET Imaging and Molecular Imaging Methods
- Advanced Organic and Medicinal Chemistry
- Radiation Safety and Regulatory Practices
Through a combination of rigorous coursework, laboratory research, and direct access to a state-of-the-art cyclotron facility, students gain practical, career-ready experience. Whether your interests lie in advancing cancer diagnostics, developing next-generation radiopharmaceuticals, addressing environmental challenges, or tackling problems in nuclear energy and waste, the UAB Radiochemistry Program provides a collaborative and forward-looking environment to launch your career in this rapidly evolving field.