Case Study: University of Alberta advances radiopharmaceutical research with GDI Ainsworth

University of Alberta powers one of Canada’s 8 cyclotron facilities with GDI Ainsworth

The University of Alberta faced the challenge of converting an existing cold-storage building into a high-specification cyclotron and medical isotope research facility, a complex task requiring specialized containment and radiation shielding. GDI Ainsworth was enlisted to provide a full mechanical and electrical integration service to overcome the constraints of the compact space and deliver a compliant radiopharmaceutical production environment.

GDI Ainsworth constructed a specialized cyclotron vault, installed hot cells, and integrated dense mechanical and electrical systems within the limited interstitial space. This solution successfully established one of only eight such cyclotron facilities in Canada, enabling the production of clinical-quality technetium-99m used in 80% of nuclear medical diagnostic procedures. The project positioned the university as a national centre of excellence and achieved Green Globe certification for its sustainable design.

University of Alberta