Radiopharmaceutical science is a multidisciplinary field, encompassing chemistry, physics and biology. It is the science of incorporating a suitable radionuclide into a pharmaceutical or other biologically active molecule in such a way as to enable it to trace or mimic certain in vivo physiological or biochemical processes. The resulting radiopharmaceuticals are used in diagnostic imaging or therapy of patients.
Radiopharmaceutical Scientists (RPS) are specialist professionals, with chemistry, pharmacy or sciences backgrounds, involved in the design, manufacture and analysis of radiopharmaceuticals. By utilising their scientific knowledge and analytical skills, RPSs provide knowledge and guidance on the safe and efficacious use of these products to ensure their suitability for clinical use.
RPSs generally work in Nuclear Medicine departments, together with a team of specialist physicians, medical physicists, medical radiation scientists (nuclear medicine technologists) and nurses, all trained in the safe use of radionuclides for medical applications. RPSs may also work in commercial radiopharmacies, medical cyclotron facilities and research institutions.
Nuclear medicine is a branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive compounds, known as radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose and provide therapy to patients. Radiopharmaceutical practitioners are responsible for creating the radiopharmaceuticals used in nuclear medicine.
The practice of nuclear medicine detects functional abnormalities in heart disease, many cancers, gastrointestinal, endocrine and neurological disorders, as well as many others within the body. It enables the visualisation of chemistry in vivo, as it is happening. This course developed in collaboration with professional radiopharmaceutical scientists will provide you with the knowledge and skills required for a rewarding career in the field of diagnostic and therapeutic medicine.