Recognized internationally as an expert on nuclear medicine and medical isotopes, TRIUMF's Dr. Tom Ruth has been appointed to serve from 2013 to 2015 as the Canadian representative member of the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Standing Advisory Group for Nuclear Applications (SAGNA).
Dr. Ruth has been an integral part of operating the TRIUMF medical isotope cyclotron for routine production of clinical research isotopes for the Pacific Parkinson's Research Centre as well as the BC Cancer Agency. Dr. Ruth's work has helped to advance Canada's profile on the international stage as a key contributor to the development of alternative production methods of medical isotopes such as Technetium-99m and Mo-99 that are used in early detection and diagnosis of disease and cancer. Dr. Ruth's expertise, coupled with his experience serving for US National Academies committees, will be advantageous for the UN-affiliate agency as he advises on healthcare applications of nuclear energy.
The International Atomic Energy Agency is an independent body of the United Nations that mediates between UN member states to promote safe, responsible use of nuclear technologies through five separate departments focused around topics such as security, applications and technical cooperation. Member states may look towards the IAEA when they are looking to advance programs in nuclear medicine, energy and environmental applications of nuclear science.
Within the IAEA, the Standing Advisory Group serves to provide advice to the IAEA's Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications. Members of the committee provide crucial expertise and advice to the IAEA in its development of key policies, especially with regards to the Millennium Development Goals. The committee seeks to find where the needs of individual nations may not be fully met, and will provide advice to the IAEA on how to better implement programs to assist these nations in their nuclear science goals.
As the sole Canadian representative on the 20 member advisory committee, Dr. Ruth is excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with international experts on the production and advancement of radioisotope technology. He hopes to learn more about how others are advancing radioisotope applications, and to share his experiences and expertise in turn.
Congratulations, Dr. Ruth!
-Ariane Madden, Communications Assistant