About IRCHO
IRCHO is the world's first dedicated olympiad in radiochemistry — an international competition, fully online and open to high school and university students.
Our mission
To create a recognised international stage for students passionate about nuclear and radiation chemistry — a field that currently sits in the margins of mainstream chemistry competitions, where it appears only as a minor sub-topic.
What makes IRCHO unique
- Sole focus on radiochemistry — terminology, decay kinetics, dosimetry, nuclear analytical techniques.
- Real experimental data tasks — Round 1 includes interpreting an actual gamma-ray spectrum or decay curve.
- Open to both high school and university students on a single international track.
- Every finalist receives a physical certificate, signed by our Scientific Advisor, mailed to their address.
Why radiochemistry matters
Radiochemistry underpins nuclear medicine, environmental monitoring, energy production, archaeological dating and forensic analysis. Yet it is rarely taught in depth before graduate school. IRCHO aims to change that.
Organisation & legal entity
IRCHO is operated by an independent organising committee from a legal entity registered in Uruguay. Prizes for top performers are processed through this entity, which means participants benefit from clear Uruguayan consumer-protection rules and standard buyer protections.
The first step is free.
Round 1 is open to all students worldwide. No selection required.