Isotopes utilized in Biology fall into two broad categories: Stable and Radioactive. An isotope (from the Greek isos, meaning "same," and topos, signifying "place") is one of two or more species of atoms of a chemical element with the same atomic number and position in the periodic table and nearly identical chemical behavior but with different atomic masses and physical properties. Every chemical element has one or more isotopes.

Stable isotopes do not undergo decay and their mass remains the same. However, they may themselves be the product of the decay of radioactive isotopes. Stable isotopes already play an important role in research today and will become even more important to research in the future. In biological studies, the stable isotopes practiced are H, C, N, O, S, B, and Li. Examples of stable elements commonly used in agriculture and biology include C-13, O-18 and N-15 as well as noble gas isotopes. Uses of stable isotopes include the custom synthesis of new and complex labeled compounds for use in agriculture, biology, chemistry, drug testing, geology, health, nutrition, and physics as well as in medical diagnostic.

The course is designed to acquaint the participants with theoretical and practical aspects of using isotopes in food, agriculture and medicine. Apart from lectures in the specialized fields, the course provides the participants a practical exposure to various on-going research projects at NIFA. The purpose of this training is to bring together stakeholders (users and producers) from different communities and disciplines (including food, agriculture, medical and basic researchers) to discuss the Nation’s current and future needs for stable and radioactive isotopes.

October 5-9, 2009

Required qualification
The minimum qualification required is a bachelor degree in physical/biological sciences, medicine, agriculture, biotechnology and other related disciplines. However, masters or doctoral degree will be preferred.
 Application
Applications duly completed on the prescribed format should reach, to the course organizer, on or before September 15, 2009. In-service candidates must apply through proper channel. Click here to download the application form. A limited number of candidates (25-30) will be selected for participation in the course.

Award of certificates                    
 The certificates will be awarded at the concluding ceremony of the course.
 Registration Fee
Rs 500/- 

The participants or the nominating agencies will bear the expenses for travel and stay at Peshawar. NIFA will, however, help in arranging accommodation if requested in advance. Pick and drop facility and working lunch will be provided by NIFA.

All correspondence should be addressed to:
Dr. Ihsanullah
Chief Organizer
Nuclear Institute for Food & Agriculture (NIFA),
P.O. Box 446, Tarnab, Peshawar

Phone (Off) 091- 2964796, 296460-62 (Res) 091-851904, Fax: 091-2964059

E-mail: ihsanullahdr@yahoo.com