Sept. 5, 2024
Contact: Uriah Orland, uriah.orland@missouri.edu, 573-884-5139
The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) has been named the 2024 Hawthorn Foundation Project of the Year Award for its groundbreaking work and significant contributions to scientific research, innovation and economic development in Missouri. This recognition underscores Mizzou’s pivotal role in positioning Missouri as a leader in nuclear science and technology.
Governor Mike Parson presented the award to UM System President Mun Choi and other university leaders during the Missouri Governor’s Conference on Economic Development, Sept. 5.
“We congratulate the MURR team, President Choi, and the University of Missouri on earning this well-deserved award,” Governor Parson said. “Not only will the MURR project see to it that Missouri emerges as a global leader in radioisotope production; it also means job creation, economic development, and cutting-edge research and innovation. We are proud to be home to this exciting new project and look forward to the advancements in healthcare and nuclear medicine that will come from it.”
MURR was selected because of its ongoing expansion of radioisotope production and the transformative initiative to build a new, state-of-the-art research reactor — NextGen MURR. This project represents a $1 billion investment in the future of nuclear medicine and radioisotope production, establishing Missouri as a global hub for leading-edge research and innovation.
“The University of Missouri Research Reactor exemplifies the innovative spirit and forward-thinking approach that the Hawthorn Foundation seeks to recognize and support,” said Becky Willard, Executive Director of the Hawthorn Foundation. “MURR’s contributions to nuclear science and its impact on both healthcare and economic development in Missouri are truly outstanding. This award acknowledges not just their achievements to date, but also the promise of what their ongoing work will bring to our state and beyond.”
MURR’s expansion, including the construction of the $20 million addition named MURR West, will create more than 50 jobs in 2025 and is set to generate many more as the organization continues to grow. The new addition, which broke ground in October 2023, will support the development and production of life-saving radioisotopes, further solidifying MURR’s status as a premier research institution.
“The University of Missouri Research Reactor is at the forefront of scientific innovation and economic development, and we are honored to receive the Hawthorn Foundation Project of the Year Award,” Choi said. “Our growth is not only a win for Missouri, but also for the millions of patients who benefit from the life-saving treatments developed through our research and isotope production.”
The NextGen MURR initiative is set to make Missouri home to the two largest university research reactors in the United States. This project not only enhances MURR’s capacity to produce critical medical isotopes but also drives job creation, with more than 200 specialized positions anticipated with the new facility.
“The Hawthorn Foundation’s recognition of our work is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the entire MURR team, as well as the vision of the University of Missouri to build a new reactor,” said Matt Sanford, executive director of MURR. “There is a critical need for these cancer fighting drugs and our efforts are advancing nuclear science and improving lives of patients around the world. We’re excited to expand MU’s leadership in nuclear science and technology and contribute to the future of healthcare and economic growth in Missouri and beyond.”
In addition to direct job creation, MURR’s initiatives have attracted significant industry investment and partnerships. These collaborations are crucial in building a robust radiopharmaceutical supply chain, reducing U.S. dependency on foreign isotope supplies and driving advancements in cancer treatment and diagnostics.
Watch the Hawthorn Award video here.
About Hawthorn Foundation
Hawthorn Foundation is a highly diverse group of statewide leaders dedicated to the economic prosperity of all Missourians. Since 1982, the Hawthorn Foundation has supported trade missions to assist with the promotion of Missouri globally. The organization works diligently toward development, growth, and prosperity for the state of Missouri through partnerships with the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri Partnership, and local and regional economic and workforce development organizations.