Dr. M.R.A. Pillai Ph.D, D.Sc is a radiopharmaceuticals scientist with over forty years of research experience. Dr. Pillai obtained B.Sc from Kerala University, M.Sc and Ph.D from University of Mumbai; and D.Sc from the Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology (INCT), Poland. Dr. Pillai worked as Head, Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre during 2000-2003 and 2011-2013. Dr. Pillai was at different times during 1987-94 at the University of Missouri-Columbia as Post Doctoral Research Associate, Visiting Assistant Professor and Visiting Professor. Dr. Pillai worked at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) during 2003-2010. Currently, he is engaged as Group Director in Molecular Cyclotrons, Cochin, Kerala. Dr. Pillai carried out extensive research in radioimmunoassay, radioisotope production and radiopharmaceuticals chemistry. He is an expert in isotope production using both reactor and cyclotron. Dr. Pillai authored over 200 publications including 30 review articles, holds 2 US patents, and presented over 100 invited lectures. He is authored three books. At the IAEA, he was responsible for editing and publication of 13 IAEA books on ‘Cyclotron Produced Radionuclides’, ‘technetium-99m radiopharmaceuticals’, ‘therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals’ and ‘radionuclide generators’. Dr. Pillai visited more than 50 countries in connection with his IAEA work. Dr. Pillai received six IAEA awards including a distinguished service award, a merit award, two team awards and two best publication awards during his seven year tenure.

Cancer imaging and therapy using radiopharmaceuticals; Isotope production using reactor and cyclotron; radiopharmaceuticals chemistry; SPECT, PET and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals.