From March 7 to 29, 2026, our researcher from the O.V. Shishkin Department of X-ray Diffraction Studies and Computational Chemistry, PhD in Chemistry, Viktor Tokarev, successfully completed an international internship at the Department of Radiology & Nucleair Medicine and Molecular Imaging at the University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands – one of Europe’s leading centers in molecular imaging.
The training took place within the framework of a joint project between the SSI “Institute for Single Crystals” of NAS of Ukraine and V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, aimed at developing competencies in the synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals for biomedical imaging.
The purpose of the visit was to gain practical experience in creating radiopharmaceuticals – specialized medicinal products used in modern medical diagnostics, particularly for early detection of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
During the internship, Viktor Tokarev participated in and familiarized himself with the full cycle of modern radiopharmaceutical development. In collaboration with colleagues, he took part in the synthesis of one such compound and in quality control using advanced laboratory analytical methods.
Special attention was given to:
- The full workflow with radiopharmaceuticals – from synthesis to preparation for medical use;
- Operation of PET scanners and modern molecular imaging technologies;
- Research infrastructure for studying oncological processes in animal models;
- Practical handling of radioactive isotopes used in contemporary diagnostics;
- Logistics and safe transportation of radiopharmaceuticals.
Following the internship, discussions focused on opportunities to implement similar technologies and develop relevant laboratory infrastructure in Ukraine, taking into account both technical and organizational aspects.
Today, the development of nuclear medicine in Ukraine holds strategic importance, shaped not only by scientific ideas but also by access to modern infrastructure and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies. In this context, international collaboration is a key factor. Initiatives like this and the scientific mobility of researchers contribute not only to knowledge exchange but also to the formation of long-term partnerships between our Institute and leading European scientific and medical centers.