Nuclear and Radiochemistry Course | PG Level | Prof. P.K. Mohapatra & Prof. B.S. Tomar
Course Details
| Exam Registration | 84 |
|---|---|
| Course Status | Ongoing |
| Course Type | Elective |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Categories | Chemistry |
| Credit Points | 3 |
| Level | Postgraduate |
| Start Date | 19 Jan 2026 |
| End Date | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Enrollment Ends | 02 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Registration Ends | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Date | 24 Apr 2026 IST |
| NCrF Level | 4.5 — 8.0 |
Unlock the Secrets of the Atom: A Premier Course in Nuclear and Radiochemistry
The fascinating world of the atomic nucleus holds the key to advancements in energy, medicine, environmental science, and fundamental research. If you are a postgraduate student in chemistry or a related field looking to master this dynamic domain, the 12-week course on Nuclear and Radiochemistry offered by the Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) is your ideal gateway. Guided by two of India's most distinguished nuclear scientists, this course provides an unparalleled deep dive into the theory, practice, and cutting-edge applications of this critical science.
Why Study Nuclear and Radiochemistry?
Nuclear chemistry investigates the properties and reactions of atomic nuclei, while radiochemistry uses the unique signatures of radioactive isotopes to study chemical systems. Together, they form the backbone of numerous technologies:
- Nuclear Energy: Fuel cycle management, waste treatment, and safety.
- Healthcare: Diagnostic imaging (PET, SPECT), radiotherapy, and radiopharmaceuticals.
- Industry & Research: Material analysis, tracing processes, and dating techniques.
- Environmental Science: Monitoring pollutants, studying climate change, and remediation.
- Fundamental Science: Understanding element formation, nuclear stability, and actinide chemistry.
This course is meticulously designed to build a strong foundation, making it essential for students aspiring to build careers in research institutions, the nuclear industry, healthcare, and academia.
Learn from the Pioneers: Meet Your Instructors
The course is taught by professors with decades of pioneering research and leadership experience at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
Prof. P.K. Mohapatra
Currently heading the Radiochemistry Division at BARC, Prof. Mohapatra is a luminary in separation science. An Alexander von Humboldt fellow, his work on separating actinides and fission products using innovative techniques like ionic liquids and liquid membranes is internationally acclaimed. His accolades include the DAE-SRC Outstanding Researcher Award and the Homi Bhabha Science & Technology Award. With over 400 publications and guiding numerous PhD students, he brings immense research expertise to the classroom.
Prof. B.S. Tomar
A former Director of the Radiochemistry and Isotope Group at BARC, Prof. Tomar has over 25 years of teaching experience at the BARC Training School. His research spans nuclear fission, heavy-ion reactions, and actinide speciation. An expert for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and a former visiting professor at TU Delft, Netherlands, he has guided 17 PhD students. Currently an Institute Chair Professor at HBNI, his insights bridge fundamental science and applied nuclear technology.
Course Structure: A 12-Week Journey
The course layout is comprehensive, progressing from core fundamentals to specialized advanced topics:
| Week | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Week 1-2 | Radioactivity, Decay, Nuclear Structure & Stability, Nuclear Models |
| Week 3-4 | Interaction of Radiation with Matter, Radiation Detectors |
| Week 5-6 | Nuclear Reactions, Nuclear Fission, Production of Radioisotopes |
| Week 7-8 | Radiochemical Methods, Nuclear Analytical Techniques, Applications of Radioisotopes |
| Week 9-12 | Actinide Chemistry, Spectroscopy, Separation Chemistry, Transactinides, Environmental Chemistry |
Who Should Enroll?
Intended Audience: This course is perfectly suited for M.Sc. and Ph.D. students in Chemistry, Physics, Nuclear Engineering, and related disciplines.
Prerequisites: While no specific course is mandatory, a background in basic inorganic chemistry, mathematics for chemistry, and introductory quantum mechanics will be highly beneficial for grasping the concepts effectively.
Essential Learning Resources
The course draws from a rich library of classic and modern texts, including:
- Nuclear and Radiochemistry by Friedlander, Kennedy, et al.
- Radiation Detection and Measurement by G.F. Knoll
- The Chemistry of the Actinide and Transactinide Elements (Springer)
- Fundamentals of Radiochemistry (IANCAS Publication)
- Comprehensive handbooks and seminal works by Seaborg, Choppin, Keller, and others.
Building a Future in Nuclear Science
This course is more than just an academic module; it's a foundation for a impactful career. The skills and knowledge imparted are directly relevant to:
- Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) facilities and research centres.
- Nuclear power plants and fuel cycle facilities.
- Radiopharmaceutical and medical isotope production companies.
- Analytical laboratories and environmental monitoring agencies.
- Academic and industrial R&D divisions worldwide.
Under the guidance of Prof. Mohapatra and Prof. Tomar, you will not only learn the subject but also gain insights into the real-world challenges and innovations driving the field of nuclear and radiochemistry forward. Enroll to begin your journey at the forefront of this transformative science.
Enroll Now →