Paul Schaffer

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About

Paul Schaffer is a leading figure in radiochemistry and nuclear medicine, whose work has fundamentally advanced the production of novel radiotracers for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. His key research areas encompass the development of innovative radiochemical methods, particularly for the fluorine-18 isotope, and the application of these techniques to create new diagnostic tools for cancer and neurological disorders. Schaffer’s major contribution is the pioneering of a rapid, one-step, aqueous method for 18F-labeling via isotope exchange on aryltrifluoroborates. This breakthrough, detailed in his highly cited 2012 paper (42 citations), overcomes a long-standing challenge by enabling the production of radiotracers at very high specific activity under mild, biocompatible conditions. This work has had a significant impact on the field, providing a simple and efficient route for developing new PET agents. Beyond this seminal paper, Schaffer is recognized for his leadership in radiopharmaceutical science, including his role at TRIUMF, Canada’s particle accelerator centre, where he directs the development of novel isotopes and radiochemistry technologies that are shaping the future of molecular imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy.