Successes and problems in the development of medical radioisotope production in Russia

There are many challenges that face radionuclide production and application for medical diagnostics and therapy in Russia. In this article, the development of novel production methods for medical radionuclides ($^{82}$Sr, $^{82}$Sr/$^{82}$Rb-generator, $^{117 \rm m}$Sn, $^{225}$Ac, etc.) at the Institute for Nuclear Research, RAS is described, providing an example of how supporting basic nuclear facilities, backing fundamental research, granting scientists and medical specialists freedom in choosing a research area, and effective international collaboration involving developed countries combine to enable progress in the field.