State-supported project is expected to create 205 jobs and expand domestic production for medical imaging and cancer treatment
SANTA FE, N.M. (September 25, 2026) — Albuquerque-based Eden Radioisotopes plans to invest up to $1.4 billion in a medical isotope production facility in Lea County, New Mexico. The project is expected to create 205 jobs statewide, including 146 in Lea County.
Eden plans to build a reactor and processing facility to produce isotopes used in diagnostic imaging and cancer treatment. The company describes the project as North America’s first purpose-built medical isotope production reactor and processing facility.
The first phase is expected to begin operating in 2030 and create 125 jobs. A planned second reactor would add 80 more positions. The roles are expected to include nuclear engineers, reactor operators, radiation safety professionals and skilled technicians.
Expanding the U.S. Medical Isotope Supply
More than 40,000 U.S. medical procedures use isotopes each day, according to the state’s announcement. Much of the country’s supply depends on aging reactors and production overseas, leaving healthcare providers exposed to disruptions.
Eden’s planned facility would add domestic capacity for isotopes that help clinicians diagnose disease and deliver targeted treatment.
“This is a win for New Mexico’s economy and for American healthcare,” said New Mexico Economic Development Secretary Rob Black. “We’re bringing high-wage jobs to New Mexico while helping build a more reliable supply of critical medical isotopes.”
State Support and Economic Impact
New Mexico is supporting the project through its Job Training Incentive Program, high-wage and rural job tax credits, and LEDA GRT Share. The project is expected to generate more than $1.5 billion in economic impact over 10 years, according to the state.
“We’re proud to build this critical medical isotope capacity here in New Mexico, a state with a long history of nuclear innovation,” said Eden Radioisotopes CEO Carrie Freeman. “This project will create high-quality jobs for New Mexicans while helping ensure patients across the United States have reliable access to the medical isotopes they need for lifesaving diagnosis and treatment.”
Eden’s reactor technology is based on research developed at Sandia National Laboratories. The company also expects New Mexico’s universities, including the University of New Mexico, to help develop the specialized workforce the project will need.
