Talks and shows

The new chemistry of medical imaging

Franklin Aigbirhio explores how the creation of new chemicals is improving our understanding of the human body.

F Aigbirhio via University of Cambridge

Join chemist Franklin Aigbirhio to discover the latest in the design and use of new chemicals that are applied for medical imaging. In addition to imaging the structure of the human body these new molecules can provide information on important biochemicals. For example, the use of glucose for energy and the distribution of key enzymes and proteins. Explore how these “smart” chemicals are designed to bind to these biochemicals and how their distribution in the body can be imaged by tagging with radioactive isotopes.

Franklin will explain how, from the information obtained from these medical images, we can use this technology to understand how the human body normally works and research various disorders such as cancer, dementia and high blood pressure. In addition to this, these chemicals can help achieve early diagnosis of disorders and develop new treatments.

Event type

This is a theatre only event where the speakers and audience are together in our Theatre.

By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri's event terms and conditions. You also agree to abide by our code of conduct, and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants. Please note that Eventbrite adds a small booking fee to the amount paid for each ticket option.

For any queries regarding this event please get in touch by phone 020 7409 2992 or email events@ri.ac.uk.

About Franklin Aigbirhio

Photo of Franklin Aigbirhio
F Aigbirhio

Franklin Aigbirhio is Professor and Director of the Molecular Imaging Chemistry Laboratory based at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, undertaking research in developing novel PET radiopharmaceuticals and their research application into a wide range of human disorders. He is also a Senior Research Fellow at Magdalene College Cambridge, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry and a Fellow and council member of the Academy of Medical Sciences. 

He obtained a chemistry BSc(Hons) from the University of East Anglia followed by a DPhil from the University Sussex. He entered the research field of radiochemistry and biomedical imaging on joining the MRC Cyclotron Unit, Imperial College in 1991. Later, he joined the Wolfson Brain Imaging Centre, University of Cambridge in 1997 as a founding staff member, helping to establish its PET radiochemistry and imaging programmes and progressed to Co-Director of the centre in 2016.

Timing

Doors to the theatre will open at 6.45pm and the talk will begin at 7.00pm.

Accessibility

The event will take place on the first floor and there is step-free access from the street via lift.

The closest underground station is Green Park, which is step-free.

There is space at floor level in the theatre for wheelchair users.

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at events@ri.ac.uk, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing events@ri.ac.uk.

Our theatre is equipped with an Audio Induction Loop. 

Event terms and conditions