Contact: Uriah Orland, uriah.orland@missouri.edu, 573-884-5139

The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) is pleased to announce its membership in Nuclear Medicine Europe (NMEU), the leading industry association for the radiopharmaceutical and molecular imaging industry in Europe.

This strategic partnership enhances Mizzou’s role in the advancement of nuclear medicine and ensuring the global supply of essential imaging and lifesaving treatments.

“Joining Nuclear Medicine Europe is a significant step for MURR,” said Matt Sanford, executive director of MURR. “This membership helps us contribute more effectively to the global nuclear medicine community and collaborate to ensure we are able to provide the treatments that are helping patients every day.”

Nuclear Medicine Europe is dedicated to fostering the development and use of radiopharmaceuticals and molecular imaging technologies. By joining NMEU, MURR will collaborate with European institutions and companies to further research, production and application of radiopharmaceuticals.

“The University of Missouri Research Reactor is a key, global supplier of medical and research radioisotopes, and we are delighted to have them join the association,” said Mart-Jan Blauwhoff, president of Nuclear Medicine Europe. “Their expertise and resources will be a valuable addition to our collective efforts in advancing nuclear medicine and improving patient outcomes.”

MURR will collaborate in the Security of Supply Working Group, which brings together the members who operate research reactors or use their output for medical isotope production purposes. The main goal of this workgroup is to coordinate reactor operating schedules to ensure adequate global coverage during planned shutdowns for refueling and maintenance.

Mizzou’s membership in NMEU will also be bolstered by NextGen MURR, the transformational initiative to build a new state-of-the-art research reactor in Columbia. When complete, NextGen MURR will be an essential producer of medical radioisotopes to industry partners worldwide.

“This association is an important step as we look ahead to NextGen MURR and the impact it will have on the global supply chain,” Sanford said. “The need for isotopes is growing, and Mizzou is engaging with partners around the world to ensure patients have lifesaving treatments now and for decades to come.”