A scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory has been recognized by the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) for his work in medical isotope production.
Iain May has been instrumental in the development of new methods to manufacture molybdenum-99 (Mo-99) and create a reliable U.S. supply of the radioisotope, according to the laboratory. Mo-99 is a precursor to technetium-99m, a widely used radiopharmaceutical for diagnosing heart disease, cancer, and neurologic disease, along with other imaging applications.
May's work has supported the Office of Material Management and Minimization's Mo-99 program and efforts to reduce the use of highly enriched uranium in civilian applications.