Radiochemistry for the Life Sciences

2 units

This course will provide an introduction to nuclear science (e.g. radioactive decay, nuclear stability, interactions of radiation with matter) and followed by an overview of how radiochemistry is used in the life sciences. Lectures on radiolabeling chemistry with radionuclides used in medical imaging (single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) and their applications will be presented. In addition, lectures on radiochemistry with tritium (H-3) and C-14 will also be included. Additional applications include environmental radiochemistry as applied to nuclear waste disposal and biofuels.