The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has entered into a multiyear collaboration with NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes to expand research and workforce development in nuclear medicine.

The Beloit, Wisconsin-based radiopharmaceutical company will work with the university on joint initiatives including preclinical and translational research, drug development, and contract research services. The agreement also includes workforce training through academic and on-site education programs.

“This partnership aligns with our mission to advance health with innovative research that extends beyond the university, in alignment with the Wisconsin Idea,” said Dr. Nita Ahuja, dean of the school and vice chancellor for medical affairs at UW–Madison. She added that the collaboration would build on the school’s existing leadership in radiopharmaceuticals and theranostics.
The partnership includes faculty and researchers affiliated with the university’s Initiative for Theranostics and Particle Therapy. Among the stated goals are increasing NorthStar’s early-stage radiopharmaceutical development capacity and offering structured training programs for students and early-career professionals.

NorthStar operates two electron accelerators at its Beloit facility for the production of therapeutic radioisotopes. UW–Madison currently maintains a cyclotron for radionuclide production and recently received approval to build a second facility. Construction on the new site is scheduled to begin in 2026.

“We’re thrilled to partner with one of the nation’s leading academic institutions to drive sector innovation and help accelerate new therapies to market,” said NorthStar CEO Dr. Frank Scholz. “This partnership underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry and developing the talent pool that will be required to support the significant growth expected in our industry.”

The agreement was finalized in September, and several joint initiatives are already underway.

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