Jacomex Week: Empowering Our Team with Knowledge and Insights
At the beginning of September, Cyclife Aquila Nuclear (CAN) held a ‘Jacomex Week’. Christopher Planche, Area Sales Manager for Northern Europe for Jacomex, flew over from France to host various sessions with our employees to learn more about Jacomex and their product offerings. Jacomex is a French SME established in 1945, pioneering the Glovebox and Containment Industry in Europe. The activity of Jacomex covers the entire supply for glovebox systems and purification units, from bespoke mechanical and automation design, fabrication, assembling and testing, delivery, onsite assembling and testing, user training and aftersales services for maintenance and spare parts. You can read more about our partnership with Jacomex here: Jacomex UK – Cyclife Aquila Nuclear | EDF Group
The week began with a ‘Business Globally’ session which focused on reviewing Jacomex’s business relationships, sharing cross-learnings from other distributors, and discussing Jacomex’s plans. It also delved into competition analysis, EU markets, and strategies for sales and tendering. The next session was ‘Catalogue Portfolio’ and this focused on Jacomex’s product offerings which was particularly beneficial for our tendering, sales, engineering, and project teams. It ensured that all team members were well-versed on Jacomex’s product range. Taking a look at the business as whole, we had a session on “Beyond the Catalogue” which focused on Jacomex’s bespoke manufacturing options and engineering consultation services.
A highlight of the week was undoubtedly the “Show and Tell” session featuring a demonstration of their Glove Box. Open to all staff, this hands-on demonstration showcased Jacomex’s technology and its applications. It was an excellent opportunity for everyone, regardless of role, to gain a tangible understanding of one of their key products.
During the lunch break on Tuesday, we hosted a ‘Meet & Mingle’ session, giving employees a chance to chat with Christopher and ask him any questions. It was also a great opportunity for employees to meet colleagues from different departments and discuss the sessions.
Finally, we concluded the week with an overview of Jacomex’s manufacturing site. This session, particularly relevant for our tendering, sales, and engineering teams, included photos and detailed information about Jacomex’s production facilities and capabilities. It gave our team a renewed appreciation for the scale and sophistication of their operations.
A special thank you to Paul Adlem and Dave Collings for their organisation and planning on the lead up to the event and of course to Christopher for hosting the sessions and sharing his valuable knowledge with the CAN team.
If you would like to learn more about Jacomex, you can view their website here: Custom-Made Glove Box Workstation and Isolator Manufacturer
We look forward to continuing to enhance our employee’s knowledge of our suppliers and hope to hold a similar event very soon!
CAN attends NPL’s ‘Radionuclide Production in the UK’ event
Last week, Dave Barker, Director of Strategy, Paul Adlem, Customer Manager, Amin Choudhury, Scientific Officer and Keith Strong, Principal Mechanical Design Engineer had the privilege of attending the ‘Radionuclide Production in the UK’ workshop at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in Teddington. The event was hosted by NPL and the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and brought together leading experts to explore the current landscape and future potential of radionuclide production for nuclear medicine and other applications. The day was packed with insightful presentations and discussions, showcasing the incredible strides we’re making in this critical field. Below are a few standout moments that left a lasting impression:
Radionuclides for Health UK
One of the most enlightening talks of the day came from Jennifer Young of King’s College London. Her presentation on “Radionuclides for Health UK” painted a vivid picture of the transformative potential these innovations hold for our healthcare system. Jennifer’s expertise shone through as she detailed the latest advancements and the roadmap for integrating these cutting-edge technologies into clinical practice. It was inspiring to see how the UK is positioning itself at the forefront of nuclear medicine, with a clear focus on improving patient outcomes and expanding treatment options.
Local Production of Lead-212: Overcoming Challenges for Better Patient Care
We were particularly proud to see our Scientific Officer, Amin Choudhury take to the stage to discuss “Hot cell Design Considerations for Pb-212 Generators.” His talk shed light on the complexities involved in the local production of Lead-212 and the innovative solutions being developed to overcome these challenges. Amin’s expertise in this area is a testament to the talent we have in our team, and it was gratifying to see our work recognised in such a prestigious forum.
Nuclear Medicine Infrastructure
What struck us most about this event was its comprehensive nature. From cutting-edge research to practical considerations of production and supply chain management, the workshop covered all aspects of the infrastructure changes needed to support and drive innovation in nuclear medicine within the UK.
The diverse range of topics included:
- The UK Medical Radionuclide Innovation Programme
- Advanced Radioisotope Technology for Health Utility Reactor (ARTHUR) Programme
- Development of UK Astatine-211 Production Capability
- End-to-End Accelerator Production of Actinium-225 from Radium-226
- Extraction of radionuclides for Targeted Radionuclide Therapy from UK Legacy Material
- Nuclear Medicine trends and supply chain considerations
As we reflect on the event, we are filled with optimism about the future of nuclear medicine in the UK. The collaborative spirit, innovative thinking, and dedication to improving patient care were palpable throughout the day. It’s clear that we’re on the cusp of a new era in UK, healthcare, one where targeted, personalised treatment become the norm rather than the exception.
We want to extend our thanks to the organisers, speakers, and attendees who made this event such a success. The connections made and knowledge shared will undoubtedly catalyse further advancements in the field.
Tom Stevenson
Introducing Tom Stevenson, one of our Senior Project Managers! We asked Tom a few questions to get to know more about his role at CAN and what he does outside of work.
What is your role at CAN and what do you enjoy the most about it?
I am a Senior Project Manager at CAN. There is real variety across projects here ranging in complexity, value and team sizes meaning no two days are the same. I enjoy building relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, and helping to expand our successful delivery team whilst looking out for future opportunities.
How long have you worked at CAN for?
I have worked at CAN for just over seven years now.
What advice would you give to someone joining the business?
Make time to discuss experiences with the people here at CAN. There is a wealth of experience gained across many different industries within the team here. More often than not, someone will have experienced a similar problem to the one you are looking to solve, and their advice will be extremely valuable. Besides solving the problem, it helps you to build relationships and enjoy the job.
What do you do at the weekends?
Catching up with friends and family mostly. I actually really enjoy cooking and trying new recipes so I can be found in the kitchen on Sunday afternoons (or BBQ in summer) with some form of live sport on in the background…. If I win the battle for the remote.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I can move my ears without touching them.
World Mental Health Day 2024
World Mental Health Day was on Thursday 10th October and to mark this occasion we decided to host a Tea & Talk session, inspired by the Mental Health Foundation. Not only was this a great opportunity for employees from different departments to come together and mingle, but it also provided a supportive environment for people who did want to discuss mental health topics. We discussed ideas on how we can continue to support mental health in the workplace, and celebrate what’s working.
We ensure that our employees are aware of our mental health resources all year round. As part of our benefits scheme, we have access to MyStrength, an app that is dedicated purely to mental wellbeing support providing our employees with personalised guidance to help overcome life’s challenges, from guided meditation to improving sleep, and lots more. We also have access to WeCare, which is another app that has mental health support, burnout prevention and offers a pathway to access life events counselling.
In addition, we have trained mental health first aiders who are available if anyone needs to reach out to them, an internal mental health training toolkit for line managers, and a number of courses on iHasco for our employees to access. Our HR team will also support anyone who needs it.
World Mental Health Day is fundamental as it raises awareness, especially within the workplace, it helps to break the stigma of talking about mental health and most importantly, raises money for amazing charities and services that help people struggling first-hand.
If you would like to donate to the Mental Health Foundation, you can do so here: Donate to the Mental Health Foundation
Photographs from Tea & Talk event
CAN become first nuclear organisation to be awarded ISO 30415 Standard for Diversity and Inclusion
Earlier this month Cyclife Aquila Nuclear (CAN) were awarded the ISO 30415 for Diversity and Inclusion, making them the first nuclear organisation in the world to achieve the standard.
As an internationally recognised Standard, ISO 30415 focuses on HR Management and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It includes reviews of internal organisation systems, policies, processes and practices to ensure an inclusive workplace. The benefit of the international standard is that it is recognised across borders and can be applied by companies all over the world.
Dr Nara Ringrose, Head of People & Organisational Development said:
“We are immensely proud to have attained ISO 30415:2021 accreditation, a testament to our dedication to the ethical global standards of inclusion, equity, and diversity. Our values and guiding principles cultivate a collaborative culture, and the People Excellence agenda is our foremost priority. This certification allows us to ensure that our HR activities align with business goals and international HR standards.”
Attaining the standard was led by the Diversity & Inclusion Working Group; Joanna Kelloway, Recruitment Manager, and Arnie Saakyan, Employment & Management Officer with input from the CAN Executive Leadership Team and Operational Management Team.
Over the last nine months, a robust process has been established for assessing CAN HR processes and procedures as well as reviewing the content of the HR staff handbook, supportive toolkits for managers, and training and recruitment data.
The assessment process was vast and included interviews with CAN employees by an external assessor, regular monitoring of CAN social media, interviews with the HR team, and preparation of a master ISO presentation.
CAN Managing Director, Drew Corbett, reflects on this achievement and what it means for current and future employees:
“Achieving the ISO 30415:2021 Diversity and Inclusion accreditation is a fantastic achievement for our business. Creating an inclusive environment which enables us to build and develop diverse teams has been key to our growth to date and will be vitally important to the continued success Cyclife Aquila Nuclear. At CAN we have four guiding principles: to act collectively, be accountable, take care and feel pride and I don’t think there is any better evidence that we live and breathe these values than this accreditation.”
The standard demonstrates CAN’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, this includes working and communicating inclusively, advocating and championing diversity and empowering employees to act accountably.
CAN will continue to maintain the ISO standard by developing new HR policies and internal training, talent management, and promoting diversity dimensions, including the demographic and other personal characteristics of the workforce, such as age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief.
Samuel Rawlinson
Introducing Samuel Rawlinson, one of our Senior Mechanical Design Engineers! We asked Samuel a few questions to get to know more about his role at CAN and what he does outside of work.
What is your role at CAN and what do you enjoy the most about it?
I’m a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, working on the Medical Radionuclide Innovation Programme (MRIP) project. What I enjoy most is the challenge of working on projects that support the medical sector, knowing that our work can support, be it indirectly, people’s health and well-being. The technical problem-solving and collaboration with other experts in the field really keeps me motivated.
How long have you worked at CAN for?
I’ve been at CAN for two and a half years now.
What advice would you give to someone joining the business?
Be curious and open to learning. This is a company that thrives on innovation, so don’t be afraid to bring new ideas to the table. Also, collaboration is key and admitting when we don’t know helps us support one another.
What do you do at the weekends?
My weekends are quite varied! Sometimes I go lindy hop swing dancing, other times I enjoy board games, swimming, or painting with watercolours. I also dabble in hobbyist construction projects when I get the chance.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I have a black belt in Shotokan Karate.
Joanna Kelloway
Introducing Joanna Kelloway, our Recruitment Manager! We asked Jo a few questions to get to know more about her role at CAN and what she does outside of work.
What is your role at CAN and what do you enjoy the most about it?
I am Joanna, and I am the Recruitment Manager at CAN. I love that no day is ever the same! My day varies with HR, Training and Recruitment activities for the business and looking after the staff at CAN. I enjoy managing the recruitment process from start to finish and building relationships with internal and external stakeholders, but ultimately, it’s about the people that work here that make each day a great place to work and be.
How long have you worked at CAN for?
I have worked at CAN for nearly 2years – Wow….where has that time gone!
What advice would you give to someone joining the business?
If you are joining the business, you are coming to a great place of work where we abide by our Mission, Vision and Values of Elite and Ethical. CAN has a friendly, diverse, and inclusive culture where we embrace everyone’s strengths which allows you to excel.
What do you do at the weekends?
I love cooking and baking a good cake or pudding, crafting (crochet/cross stitch), socialising with family/friends and a good red wine!!
Do you have any hidden talents?
I have played in a brass band and competed at the National Finals of Great Britain 7 times!
The Appointment of our Scientific Officer
Cyclife Aquila Nuclear have been involved in the nuclear industry for the past 40 years with experience from every licensed nuclear site in the UK. Within the nuclear medicine sector, we have had an enviable track record in the design, manufacture, and installation of radiopharmaceutical systems throughout Europe. With our growing expertise and reputation, we are committed to being thought leaders within the nuclear medicine sector.
CAN’s Involvement in the Nuclear Medicine Sector
So, what is nuclear medicine and how are CAN involved? Nuclear medicine is a medical speciality that uses radioactive materials, known as radioisotopes or radiopharmaceuticals, to either treat or diagnose medical conditions by inserting the nuclear substance into the body. Once the substance is either ingested, inhaled, or injected into the body the doctor will begin taking photographs using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) or Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT). This will then flag an abnormality and result in a diagnosis. The same substance can also be used to treat medical conditions such as cancer. This revolutionary technology makes the nuclear medicine sector an exciting one to be a part of.
Dave Barker, Director of Strategy, recognises the importance of being a part of this sector and goes on to tell us about CAN’s involvement: “CAN serves all nuclear sectors including the ever-advancing field of nuclear medicines. At CAN we work with hospitals and research organisations throughout Europe. CAN specialises in the development of processes integrated within hot cells for new radioisotopes for diagnostics and therapy. The latest technologies include targeted alpha therapies which have the possibility of revolutionising treatment for cancer patients.”
You can read more about our work here: CAN & Nuclear Medicine
The Appointment of our Scientific Officer
With the global direction in targeted alpha therapies, we decided to appoint a Scientific Officer, a brand-new role to CAN. Amin Choudhury joined CAN in May this year, he supports our engineering capability in the radiochemical and clinical aspects of radiopharmaceutical production. Amin also supports the commercial and delivery teams, providing leadership in nuclear medicine technology as well as shaping our progress into the growing nuclear medicine market globally.
Amin also develops relationships with academia, clients, the supply chain, and trade bodies to help Nuclear Medicine capabilities and services at CAN. Here is what he has to say about joining CAN with details on his past experiences and what he has brought to the team so far:
“I have over 6 years of GMP experience, including; 4 years of Nuclear Medicine experience, over a year in ATMP (Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products) and most recently, Irradiation of Medical Devices. My Nuclear Medicine experience includes cyclotron produced F18 products which were terminally sterilised in autoclaves -to- Ga68 products from generators which were manufactured under aseptic conditions. The most valuable experience I have is being part of a new-build project to open a radiopharmacy in London where I enhanced my knowledgeable in Validation systems and Quality Systems. A skill I am proud to carry forward into my role as Scientific Officer is Innovation, where I have practical experience in modifying HotCells to meet the needs of operations and regulations, and practical experience working with various chemistry modules and dispensing modules within these isolators. I see my role as a bridge between CAN and the client, where the knowledge in Nuclear Medicine provides trust and support for the client when searching for solutions with CAN, additionally, with the renewed in-house knowledge, CAN offers pragmatic and innovative solutions to the Nuclear Medicine industry in an effective and assured manner.”
Over the past few months, Amin has demonstrated a real depth of experience which is helping us achieve a stronger understanding of Nuclear Medicine and how we can enhance our solutions and capabilities to serve our clients, showcasing our commitment to being thought leaders within the sector.
Strengthening our Knowledge
Another way we have been strengthening our knowledge is through industry events and conferences. In May, Dave Barker, Director of Strategy and Paul Adlem, Customer Manager flew out to Belfast to attend the British Nuclear Medicine Society’s (BNMS) Annual Spring Meeting. The conference explored pioneering innovations in Nuclear Medicine, Therapeutics and Diagnostics and continually serves as a central hub for professionals and organisations dedicated to nuclear medicine. Amin and Paul will also be attending the BNMS Autumn Meeting later in October.
CAN’S presence at these events highlight our crucial commitment to innovation, research, and development in the realm of life-saving nuclear therapeutics and diagnostics. A core aspect of our mission is our ability to ensure timely availability and safe handling of nuclear materials crucial for nuclear medical advancements. Handling radioactive materials requires stringent safety protocols and state-of-the-art facilities to prevent contamination and ensure the well-being of researchers and patients. Our facilities are equipped with advanced technology to manage these risks effectively, supporting the continuous innovation of diagnostic and therapeutic methods.
We are thrilled about the future of Nuclear Medicine at CAN, our growing expertise in the nuclear medicine sector positions us as a key player. Now with Amin on the team, we can further strengthen our knowledge and capabilities, solidifying our role as thought leaders in the industry.
Paul and Dave at the BNMS Annual Spring Meeting 2024
Phil Saunderson
Introducing Phil Saunderson, one of our Principal Engineers! We asked Phil a few questions to get to know more about his role at CAN and what he does outside of work.
What is your role at CAN and what do you enjoy the most about it?
I’m a Principal Engineer and a Technical Authority for Remote Operations. What I enjoy most about my role is the challenge of integrating advanced systems in highly controlled environments and helping more junior engineers develop.
How long have you worked at CAN for?
I have been with CAN for 1.5 years.
What advice would you give to someone joining the business?
My advice would be to embrace the complexity of the projects and never shy away from asking questions. The work we do is highly specialised, and continuous learning is key. Also, collaboration is crucial here—working closely with your team will not only enhance your skills but also lead to better outcomes for the projects.
What do you do at the weekends?
On weekends, I’m usually going to the gym, and catching up with friends/family. I’ll also, depending on the weather, either be going to the cinema and working on construction projects, or finding hidden gems along the south coast in the campervan, and some beach volleyball.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I make a superb Old Fashioned.
Charlotte Webber
Introducing Charlotte Webber one of our Mechanical Design Engineers! We asked Charlotte a few questions to get to know more about her role at CAN and what she does outside of work.
What is your role at CAN and what do you enjoy the most about it?
As a member of the CAN front end engineering team, I work primarily in opportunities providing technical input during the tendering process. Type of input can vary depending on the bid, however I primarily focus on writing technical responses for proposals.
I enjoy working in the front-end team, the role offers variety and a chance to utilise technical experience gained during my career. My days are varied, and I can work on several opportunities at a time along with gaining further knowledge and a deeper understanding of commercial activities.
How long have you worked at CAN for?
I’m relatively new to the CAN team, I joined at the end of January 2024.
What advice would you give to someone joining the business?
CAN has allowed me to gain experience in areas in which I wanted to develop, along with offering supportive environment. Starting a new job can be daunting, especially if it is a new sector. My advice is to be open, communicate your career aspirations and take the time to enjoy developing new skills and building new connections.
What do you do at the weekends?
I am at my happiness when being active and spending time outdoors, my weekends usually consist of some form of activity, climbing, surfing (when we have waves), going out on my bike and relaxing with friends and family.