Celebrating Experience and Impact of UCSF's Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Staff

It is easy to think of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging only in terms of technology and diagnostics. But behind every scan and treatment are technologists whose knowledge, commitment, and care give the patients something far greater than images. They give them answers, directions, and hope. This week, during Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Week, we highlight team members who bring this specialty to life.

Amgad Alammari
Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Q: What message would you like to communicate about the impact, value, and importance of nuclear medicine?
A: "It is more than just another modality in radiology. Nuclear medicine allows us to see what's happening inside the body at a molecular level, enabling early diagnosis and targeted treatment of countless diseases, from cancer to heart disease. Whether we are detecting illness or delivering therapy, we are making a meaningful difference in people's health and future."

Jessica Atherton, BS, NMTCB(PET)(CNMT)(CT), ARRT(N)(CT)
Principal Fusion Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Q: What inspires you most about this field?
A: "From the moment I discovered nuclear medicine, I knew it was the path for me. The ability to combine advanced technology with patient care felt almost magical—and years later, it still does. Every day, I'm inspired by the impact we make in people's lives through this incredible field."

Zach Beakley, CNMT
Principal Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Q: Who influenced your career path?
A: "I was inspired to work in nuclear medicine by my uncle, who started his career in X-Ray and trained in nuclear medicine. He took me on a tour of all the imaging modalities, and ultimately, nuclear medicine was what interested me the most."

Shadia Jomaa, CNMT, RT(N), NMTCB(CT) 
Senior Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Q: Why is this field meaningful to you?
A: "My passion for radiology comes from wanting to be in a field that's constantly evolving and intellectually challenging. I'm drawn to how it blends advanced technology with critical thinking to make a real difference in people's lives."

Erika Padilla-Morales, CNMT (NMTCB (N, CT, PET), ARRT (N))
Sr. Fusion Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Berkeley Outpatient Center
UCSF Molecular Imaging & Therapeutics

Q: What makes your role most meaningful?
A: "As a nontraditional and first-generation student, earning my degree was never just for me. It was for the generations who came before me. My grandmothers had elementary educations, my grandfather cut sugarcane in Puerto Rico, and my family and community were my partners in my degree. Today, I am honored to serve patients as if they were members of my own family, with every blanket, every IV placement, and every word of encouragement. Nuclear medicine is both an art and a science, striking a balance between advanced technology and deeply personal care. Even on difficult days, I am buoyed by my patients' gratitude, especially when I can connect with Spanish-speaking patients in my native tongue. To me, it is more than work; it is service, care, and community."

Kimberly Rosales, CNMT, ARRT(CT)
Principal Fusion Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Supervisor, Molecular Imaging & Therapeutics
UCSF Medical Center-Mission Bay & Precision Cancer Medicine Building

Q: What about your career has been most meaningful?
A: "I have enjoyed more than 20 years in nuclear medicine, with a unique 'bench-to-bedside' background spanning molecular imaging, therapy, and pre-clinical research. My career has allowed me to contribute to the field from both a scientific and clinical perspective, and I remain passionate about advancing the role of nuclear medicine patient care."

Their experiences highlight why nuclear medicine and molecular imaging matter. Beyond the technology, it's the people who ensure patients receive answers and options when they need them most.